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Kelowna  

Ellison boil water notice

In consultation with the Interior Health Authority, the GEID has issued a Precautionary Boil Water Notice (BWN) for all users within the Ellison service areas. 

The affected area includes all properties serviced by GEID which are located on or east of Old Vernon Road, on or north of Anderson Road, all properties south of Postill Drive.

This notice does not affect residents located at 4451 to 4563 Postill Drive, 5981 Old Vernon Road, Country Rhodes Strata located at 6100 Old Vernon Road, Country View Estates located at 6400 Spencer Road, Dry Valley Road and Gale Road. 

This precautionary Boil Water Notice is due to increased raw water turbidity in Mill Creek, and increased agricultural water demands that require GEID to begin using creek water.

The increased turbidity is expected to continue through Spring Run-off, and will extend through the summer months of 2014 as heavy rainfall events can also lead to rapid turbidity increases in Mill Creek. 

GEID’s customers will be notified when conditions change or water quality has improved, and when the Boil Water Notice is rescinded.

The water in the Ellison distribution system is considered to have a “Poor” rating on Interior Health Authority’s Turbidity Index, as Turbidity levels may exceed 5 NTU throughout freshet, and whenever stream flows change during the summer such as heavy rainfall events.   GEID would like to inform residents that we are maintaining disinfection throughout the distribution system.

The Interior Health Authority makes the following recommendation: “that all customers drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. Water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages 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 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.

“Owners of all public facilities must post Boil Water Notices 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 Boil Water Notice.”

GEID apologizes for any inconvenience this might cause our customers and appreciates your cooperation and patience during this time.

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