Water quality advisories are a sure sign of spring in Kimberley, as faster running creeks can increase particulate matter in the water supply.
With both Matthew and Mark Creeks running faster as the spring melt is underway, the first water quality advisory of the season now in effect.
Effective 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 the City of Kimberley is under a Water Quality Advisory — this affects all users including Kimberley, Marysville, Forest Crowne and the St. Mary Lake Road area.
Water Quality Advisories are announced when the water quality is fair, and recent testing shows water in both Mark and Matthew Creek is in that range.
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. Residents 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.
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.
If you have any questions please contact the City of Kimberley at 250-427-9660. You can check daily turbidity levels at kimberley.ca