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Water quality advisory issued for Kimberley
In accordance with Interior Health’s Water Quality Notification Program the City of Kimberley has issued a water quality advisory for all users.
Recent testing shows that current water quality is fair due to increased turbidity (cloudiness) in the water.
During the “freshet” or spring run-off, the water entering the City of Kimberley’s distribution system may become cloudy or turbid. Due to recent weather, turbidity is starting to rise. Turbidity is a measurement of water clarity and can be an indicator of a potential health risk. Water quality is considered to be good when turbidity levels are less than one Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU), fair when between one to five NTU and poor when greater than five NTU.
Health risks increase as turbidity rises, particularly for at-risk populations 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 one NTU standard recommended in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.
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.
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.
The City of Kimberley is taking measures to reduce risk. Interior Health has been fully informed 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 250-427-9660 or check the city’s website at www.kimberley.ca
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