FROM LAMBTON PUBLIC HEALTH
Keep Wells Safe During Flood Conditions
Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Sarnia, ON – Lambton Public Health encourages residents with private wells to test their water supply as soon as possible if their well has been flooded.
Recent high-water levels and flood conditions, caused by rain, could allow harmful bacteria to enter the drinking water supply rendering the water supply unsafe for consumption.
Theresa Warren, Public Health Inspector at Lambton Public Health, says “Until you can test your well water, use bottled water for daily use including drinking, making infant formula or juices, cooking, making ice, washing fruits and vegetables and brushing teeth. Alternatively you can boil your water rapidly for at least one minute before use.”
Once flood waters have receded, the well should be disinfected and tested at least 3 times, at one week intervals, before the water is used for drinking. The test for bacteria (total coliform and E. coli) and water sample kits are free. Water samples must be dropped off within 24 hours of being taken.
Water sample kits can be picked up and dropped off at:
- Lambton Public Health, 160 Exmouth St., Point Edward
- Bluewater Health CEE (lab), 450 Blanche St., Petrolia
- North Lambton Community Health Centre, 59 King St., W., Forest
- London Public Health Lab, 850 Highbury Ave. N., London
Lambton Public Health recommends well water testing 3-4 times annually to ensure the supply is not contaminated.
For information on disinfection and sampling procedures, visit www.lambtonhealth.on.ca or call Lambton Public Health, 519-383-8331 or toll-free 1-800-667-1839.