Peterborough Public Health Reminds Residents on Wells about Drinking Water Safety
Written by admin, May 6, 2017
May 6, 2017 – Peterborough Public Health is reminding the public about drinking water safety following the recent notification from the City of Peterborough that the Peterborough Wastewater Treatment Plant is in by-pass mode.
“The good news is that wastewater entering the Otonabee River is still 99% treated so with the current volumes and rate of flow there should be no significant risk to those downstream and there is no serious risk to public health,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “However, this is still a good reminder to all residents who draw water from wells to take the necessary precautions when flooding occurs to prevent illness.”
People who live south of the sewage treatment plant and draw their water from the river should check that their water treatment systems are functioning properly. Residents are advised to ensure their wells are safe by testing regularly and using a method of disinfection prior to drinking, especially during flooding periods. Water from flooded wells can be treated and made safe for drinking by rapidly boiling the water for at least one minute or by adding two drops of household bleach per one liter of water, stirring, and allowing the water to sit for 30 minutes before use.
Residents who live on the municipal water system are not impacted.
Further information about well water safety, well testing, and how to stay safe during a flood can be found online at www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
705-743-1000, ext. 391