CK Public Health is reminding residents who rely on private wells for drinking water that regular testing is vital to protect health and safety, as contaminated water can carry harmful microorganisms that may cause serious illness or even death.
The health unit provides free testing for bacteria commonly found in well water, but private well owners are responsible for collecting and submitting samples.
“According to the provincial Auditor Generals recent report, despite the availability of free testing, less than one-third of Ontarians who rely on private wells tested their water within the past 12 months,” said Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, Medical Officer of Health for Chatham-Kent. “Testing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent illness from drinking water.”
Residents are encouraged to test their well water three times a year, including early spring, early summer and fall. Bottles for sample collection can be picked up at municipal service centres or CK Public Health offices. Samples may be dropped off at CK Public Health at 177 King Street East in Chatham from Monday to Thursday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or on Fridays before 11 a.m. Results are typically available within two to four business days.
A new online portal from Public Health Ontario allows residents to complete the requisition form electronically, drop off samples and access results more quickly.
More information is available at ckphu.com/drinking-water or by calling 519-352-7270.
