Watts, North Andover, Mass., Announces its first National Backflow Prevention Day, which will be celebrated on August 16. The purpose of this day is to recognize the role of backflow prevention and cross-connection control and of those who install, maintain and test backflow prevention devices.

Of particular significance is August 16: on that day in 1933, a backflow incident occurred at two popular hotels near the World’s Fair in Chicago, resulting in 98 deaths and 2,000 illnesses. The incident led to the establishment of the Foundation for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research and to safe plumbing regulations for discharge assemblies.

“Backflow prevention devices and those who test, install and maintain them are the unsung heroes of water safety,” says Danielle Swanson, Marketing Manager at Watts. “They often go unnoticed, yet they play a crucial role in keeping water supplies clean and safe around the world. This national day reminds us to recognize the importance of the anti-backflow device and of the people involved in water security.

All industry players are encouraged to mark the day, use the official logo, and use the #BackflowDay hashtag on social media. For more information on National Backflow Prevention Day and how to observe it, go to National day archives – national day for the prevention of back-ups.