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Water boiling advised as floodwaters exceed or approach safety thresholds
Health unit advises Renfrew, Ont.-area residents with wells to be mindful about their drinking water
May 8, 2023 By Ground Water Canada
Renfrew, Ont. – With water levels currently above or approaching flooding thresholds in the area, the Renfrew County and District Health Unit is warning residents to be cautious about their drinking water.
The health unit says ponding around wells can negatively impact drinking water safety and suggests those whose wells are in contact with flooded waters to boil their water for at least a minute before consumption or for such other purposes as cooking or teeth brushing.
Water levels at Lake Coulonge are already above thresholds while those at Chats Lake, Lake Deschenes, and the Pembroke area are approaching levels of concern.
Flood waters can also impact proper septic system operations. It’s suggested that toilet flushing, showering, dishwashing and clothes washing be limited under such circumstances.
Well water samples should be tested for the presence of bacteria once flood water recede, the health unit recommends.
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