By the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit – Special to the Sydenham Current
Water is something we all use each and every day.
Whether it be for drinking, bathing, cooking, cleaning or recreation use, water is a big part of our lives.
That is why protecting our water is a top priority. On occasion water safety can become compromised and a “Water Advisory” must be issued.
There are different types of “water advisories” – boil water advisories and drinking water advisories. If you are part of a “water advisory” it means you will have to make temporary changes with how you use your water in your home. The following are a few important things to remember to keep your family safe from contaminated or potentially contaminated water.
Most “water advisories” are boil water advisories. When a boil water advisory is issued you are asked to use only boiled or bottled water for drinking, making infant formula, juices, cooking, making ice, washing fruits and vegetables and brushing teeth.
To boil your water properly, bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute. Boil only as much as you can lift to avoid scalding from spills. Once cooled, place the boiled water in clean, sealable, containers and store them in the refrigerator. Just filtering the water is NOT safe for drinking and cooking. The water must be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute to be safe.
During a boil water advisory, showering is usually fine. Just don’t swallow the water. Young children can be sponge bathed to avoid swallowing tub water.
Your dishwasher is safe to use if it has a hot setting.
If not then after the cycle has completed soak the dishes for one minute in a bleach solution of one ounce (30ml) of bleach to three gallons (4.5 litres) of water. You can do laundry the way you usually do.
If a drinking water advisory is issued you do not use the water at all until further notice.
Once a “water advisory” is lifted, run the cold water faucets for at least one minute.
“Water advisories” are issued to keep you and your family safe.
Failing to follow directions during a “water advisory” could potentially bring harm to you, your family or your friends.
Your local Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Health Unit work together to ensure your water is safe.
For more information, call the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit at 519-352-7270.
