Sunday, April 20, 2014

Warning For Those People With Wells

Private wells should not be used while flooded and once flood waters have receded, the well should be disinfected and tested, no matter what water treatment device is installed.

The Province's Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Eilesh Cleary warns until your water supply has been tested and shown to be safe, water for drinking and personal use should be brought to a rolling boil for at least a minute and then stored in clean, covered containers.

Private water supplies may be contaminated by such things as furnace oil, gasoline or agricultural chemicals. If you believe your well has been affected by such chemicals, the water should not be used  at all, even if it has been boiled, until it has been determined to be safe.

If the soil around your house and septic system is flooded, you should conserve water and avoid flushing the toilet if possible. Avoid using dish washers and washing machines as the septic system will not work under these conditions and sewage could end up in the home or backyard.