So far this winter, 170 homes in Stratford have reported a loss of running water due to frozen pipes.
Last week, Suzanne Fitzpatrick’s home was added to that list.
Six days later, it’s still without water.
“At first it was kind of a novelty, but the novelty’s definitely worn off,” Fitzpatrick said Tuesday.
Fitzpatrick and her family have taken to using plastic dishes, showering less often and boiling snow to provide water for certain unavoidable needs.
“It is kind of annoying – not being able to wash dishes, not being able to shower, having to boil snow just to flush the toilet,” said son Tyler Fitzpatrick.
“A whole tub full of snow – when it melts down, it’s next to nothing.”
City crews have been to the Fitzpatricks’ home, but have so far been unable to determine and address the issue halting their service.
Ron Shaw, the city’s chief administrative officer, says crews are getting to homes as quickly as they can – but have to juggle those calls with frozen and broken water mains.
He suggests residents worried about being affected by those issues take proactive measures.
“If you’ve had frozen services before, leave water on a trickle,” he said.
“If you let us know, we’ll make sure you’re not charged … for the excess water being used.”
