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Turbidity triggers water quality advisory
The City of Kimberley issued a water quality advisory this morning (May 7) for customers in Kimberley, Marysville and Forest Crowne. Recent testing shows that current water quality in Mark Creek and Matthew Creek is ‘fair’ due to increased turbidity (cloudiness).
The city and Interior Health recommend that children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and anyone seeking additional protection drink boiled water or a safe alternative. For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making juice or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute.
Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.
Health risks increase as turbidity rises, particularly for at-risk population such as newborns, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
Contaminants such as viruses, bacteria and parasites can attach themselves to the suspended particles in turbid water. These particles can then interfere with disinfection, limiting chlorine’s ability to remove or inactivate the contaminants.
Current turbidity levels exceed the 1 NTU standard recommended in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.
Owners of public facilities must post Water Quality Advisories at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Water Quality Advisory.
NOTE: A BOIL WATER advisory continues for the following areas ONLY: Kimberley Golf Course, Riverside Campground, River Bend Lane, River Bend Road, River Ridge Way, and Tamarack Lane Areas, as well as Sunflower Drive.
The City of Kimberley is taking additional measures to reduce risk. Interior Health has been fully involved and the public will be notified when conditions change or water quality has improved.
We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. If you have any questions please contact the City of Kimberley at 427-9660.
Please note that you can check the turbidity levels by clicking HERE.
City of Kimberley,
Operations & Environment Services
