Jerome, Idaho (KMVT-TV) If you have a sprinkler system in your yard or business runs water you are required to get your backflow device tested in the City of Jerome.

"State and federal regulations require backflow devices or assemblies to be installed on certain parts of water systems” Walt Appell, Director Jerome Public Works.

The public works department is to maintain and enforce water supply protection and prevent any type of hazard from getting into the water main line.

That includes fertilizer and animal feces.

"We want to supply good clean water to our users” Walt Appell, Director Jerome Public Works.

The backflow program is to prevent citizens from getting ill.

Many states across the nation have similar requirements.

"A lot of different states, a lot of different areas, we just had a backflow issue in Caldwell were people got sick” Walt Appell, Director Jerome Public Works.

All residents must be up to code with their backflow device, if they're not the city could turn off your water.

"It could lead to a fine; the fine would be the same as having your water discounted for nonpayment of service” Walt Appell, Director Jerome Public Works.

The city does not test for homeowners but will recommend a licensed tester.

"We supply a list of testers, known licensed testers that we have with the city and a lot of the time testers put it on routine and test every year” Walt Appell, Director Jerome Public Works.
Having your device tested yearly could prevent contaminated water.

If you need assistance on how to get your backflow system tested.
You can call the city of Jerome Public Works office at (208) 324-9669.