All-clear for three water supplies

LIFTING of the boil-water alert affecting people at Lawitta, Boyer and Dromedary has been approved by the Department of Health and Human Services. The warning was issued on June 8 after heavy rain resulted in floodwaters impacting on the water supply.

Extensive cleaning of reservoirs has taken place along with significant flushing of the reticulation system. Recent tests have demonstrated that the system no longer poses a risk allowing for the director of public health to lift the alert.

TasWater acting chief executive Dean Page thanked residents for their patience during the period of the boil water alert. Mr Page said residents and businesses would receive written a notice over the coming days informing them of the Boil Water Alert being lifted.

The boil-water alert for National Park, Westerway and Fentonbury remains in place. TasWater says water quality in the area has been affected by floodwater following recent severe weather conditions.

Fentonbury.

National Park.

Westerway.

Affected customers are advised to bring their drinking water to a boil by heating the water until a continuous and rapid stream of air-bubbles is produced from the bottom of a pan or kettle. Kettles with automatic cut-off switches are suitable, and variable temperature kettles should be set to "boil".

After heating, water must be allowed to cool before using it, and be stored in a clean, closed container for later use. Care should be taken to avoid scalding injuries.

Customers in the affected areas should boil all water used for:

• Drinking
• Brushing teeth
  Washing and preparing food or beverages
• Preparing baby formula
• Cooking rice.

Unboiled water may be used for:

• Showering and bathing (avoid swallowing water). As a precaution babies and toddlers should be sponge-bathed to prevent them swallowing water
• Washing dishes by hand or in a dishwasher, providing dishes are air-dried before being used after washing
• Washing clothes.

The Department of Health and Human Services advises that consumption of unboiled water could lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and a general feeling of being unwell. If you are concerned that you may have been affected by contaminated water please contact your doctor and advise them about the boil-water alert.

The state's chief veterinary officer has advised TasWater that there is no increased risk to animals drinking mains-supply water in towns under a Boil Water advisory.

For details on boil water procedures or for more information, visit www.taswater.com.au or phone 13 69 92.

Click here for more information on temporary boil water alerts.