Abstract Although transient conditions can pose a serious threat to water system integrity, a wide range of transient design and surge protection strategies are available to owners and operators. These control approaches range from modifications to both basic system and its operation to the installation of dedicated protection devices. This article summarizes a range of transient control procedures, protection devices, and intersystem connections that have often proved to be both effective and economical. Case studies illustrate several surge protection strategies and also warn practitioners that well‐intended but inadequate transient design can actually be detrimental, possibly degrading the transient response. The best transient protection systems are thoughtfully and comprehensively designed and maintained, with final choices balancing key risks and costs.