Why We Recognize National Backflow Prevention Day

As we reach the peak of summer, when the days are long, the temperatures are high and ice cubes tinkle in a cooling beverage, we take a moment to recognize National Backflow Prevention Day on August 16.

Observed in both Canada and the United States, this day highlights the critical role of backflow prevention in protecting drinking water systems and public health. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the dedicated professionals who work behind the scenes to install, test, inspect, and maintain backflow prevention devices that help keep our water safe.

The reality is that a backflow event, where contaminated or polluted water flows back into a potable water supply, can occur anywhere and at any time. One of the earliest and most well-documented examples took place during the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair. Reported on August 16, the outbreak began when a cross connection between the sewage and water systems at two hotels contaminated the drinking water supply. The resulting outbreak of amoebic dysentery led to more than 1,700 illnesses across 206 US cities and claimed approximately 100 lives.

Canada has also experienced the devastating consequences of water contamination. The Walkerton water crisis of 2000 remains one of the country’s most significant public health disasters. Following heavy rainfall, E. coli bacteria from a nearby farm entered a municipal well, contaminating the drinking water supply. Seven people lost their lives, and more than 2,300 became ill.

These tragedies serve as stark reminders of why effective water management and cross connection control programs are essential to maintaining healthy communities. While large-scale contamination incidents capture headlines, smaller risks to drinking water systems arise every day. Preventing these events requires the expertise of individuals who understand cross connection control programs, backflow prevention devices, and the critical role they play in safeguarding public health.

This year, we are raising awareness of National Backflow Prevention Day by highlighting the people on the front lines of water protection. From backflow prevention testers and inspectors to the organizations that support and administer these programs, their dedication helps ensure that safe, clean drinking water continues to flow to our homes, businesses, and communities. On August 16, we recognize and thank these professionals for the vital work they do every day to protect one of our most valuable resources: safe drinking water.

Want to learn more about backflow prevention? Visit BCWWA’s Linkedin and Instagram channels to watch new videos featuring testers, inspectors and instructors who share what a day in the life looks like as they work to safeguard our water systems from contamination risks. Learn more about BCWWA’s CCC certification program.