TIDEWATER TEAMS UP WITH FIREFIGHTERS TO PROMOTE FIRE SAFETY

CONTACT: Gerard L. Esposito, President or Carol S. Murphy, Customer/Community Outreach Coordinator (302) 734-7500

Dover, Delaware - September 19, 2006 - In an effort to promote fire safety, Tidewater Utilities, Inc. teamed up with the Little Creek Voluntary Fire Department during the Delaware Volunteer Firemen's Association Parade held on Saturday, September 16th. "Team Up For Safety" was the theme of the float created by the Little Creek Fire Department and Tidewater. The float, touting the slogan, “Play It Safe, Plan Your Escape” earned first place honors for “Best Appearing Fire Prevention Float”.

As a public water utility, Tidewater Utilities, Inc. is dedicated to the provision of safe, adequate and proper water service for those communities where Tidewater Utilities is the water utility provider. “Tidewater works with local fire departments year-round to ensure an abundant water supply and adequate fire protection for Delaware residents in the 270 communities we serve,” said Gerard L. Esposito, Tidewater’s President. “We thank the Little Creek Voluntary Fire Department for offering us an opportunity to join with them in helping to educate the public about fire prevention measures in this year’s Fireman’s Parade,” added Esposito. As the cold weather approaches, homeowners are reminded to plan fire escape routes, recognize and correct fire hazards in their homes, and to be especially careful when using fireplaces and wood stoves.

Tidewater, established in 1964, provides service to retail water and wastewater customers, south of the C&D Canal. Presently, the Company serves almost 30,000 homes and business in the State. Through its affiliated companies, Tidewater serves a wide range of water and wastewater services including consulting, contract operations and maintenance, and bulk water supply. Tidewater is a subsidiary of Middlesex Water Company (NASDAQ:MSEX), a leading water provider in New Jersey. For more information about Tidewater Utilities, visit our website at www.tuiwater.com