January 24, 2017

HEALTH OFFICIALS IN HAMILTON COUNTYADVISE OF THE POTENTIAL FOR PRIVATEWELL WATER CONTAMINATION DUE TOFLOODING ALONG THE WITHLACOOCHEERIVER

Contact:
DOH-Hamilton
Mark Lander
Mark.Lander@flhealth.gov
386-792-1414, ext. 232

JASPER, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Hamilton County is advising residents with homes near or along the Withlacoochee River on the potential of well water contamination due to possible flooding conditions.

If your well water has experienced a recent discoloration or the casing has been inundated with floodwater you should boil the water as a precaution or use bottled water until a sample has been tested. The health department will be conducting testing on wells in its sampling network to determine if these wells have been impacted by the floodwater. Water contamination presents several health risks to humans and may contain bacteria that could cause gastrointestinal and other diseases. Children and older adults, as well as people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to disease so every precaution should be taken if well water is discolored.

Boiled Water Precaution Instructions:
Bring water to a rolling boil for one minute and cool before use. Common unscented household bleach (4% to 6% active ingredient can be used effectively as a chlorine disinfectant. Disinfect the water by adding 8 drops (about 1/8 teaspoon) of unscented household bleach per gallon and then let stand for 30 minutes. If high strength bleach is used (8.25%) add 7 drops. Repeat the procedure once if the water is still cloudy.

This includes all the water used for drinking, making beverages or ice, cooking, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and washing areas of the skin that have been cut. It is recommended to use bottle water when mixing with baby formula.

For information on private well water sampling, contact the Florida Department of Health in Hamilton County at 386-792-1414, ext. 232 or Hamilton.floridahealth.gov.

Please see our entire press release for a full list of resources.