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Prince Rupert issues water advisory

Public will be advised as soon as issues resolved
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A water quality advisory for Prince Rupert residents was issued just before 5 p.m. by the city. (File photo)

A water quality advisory has been issued for the area, the City of Prince Rupert announced on Feb. 10.

“Please note that due to high turbidity levels detected in the drinking water supply relating to the heavy rain event we just experienced, a Water Quality Advisory has been issued, ” the city stated in a media statement.

“Northern Health recommends that children, pregnant women, the elderly and persons with weakened immune systems drink boiled water at this time.”

Heavy rainfall, as well as the current reliance on the City’s secondary water source at Shawatlans Lake are believed to be contributing factors to increased incidences of elevated turbidity. It is anticipated that turbidity events will decrease following the return to the City’s primary supply at Woodworth Lake, following the completion of the dam this spring.

The city explained a Water Quality Advisory is a precautionary measure issued to residents considered most ‘at risk’. It indicates a level of risk associated with consuming the drinking water, but the conditions do not warrant a boil water notice or do-not-use water notice. It is the lowest level notification, and is issued as a precautionary measure, particularly to those with compromised immune systems that they should take appropriate steps, such as boiling their water prior to consuming.

For these sensitive users, as a precaution, all water intended for the following uses should be boiled for 1 minute, then cooled and placed in a food grade storage container before

• Drinking

• Washing fruits and vegetables

• Making beverages or ice

• Brushing teeth

“Owners of public facilities are requested to post Water Quality Advisories at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public, alternatively, public fountains and taps should be turned off. As opportunities arise they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Water Quality Advisory,” the city stated.

Additional testing is being conducted to continually monitor water quality and adjust recommendations accordingly. This advisory remains in effect until another public notice, amendment or rescindment is directed by the Drinking Water Officer at Northern Health Authority.