Town of Georgina
Private Water Wells Sampling Procedures
In the wake of increased concern over the safety of drinking water, many residents in York Region on private well supplies are sampling their drinking water for bacterial contamination.
The Provincial Public Health Laboratory has changed its procedures over the past few weeks and has started to inform public health units about private well sample test results in their areas. York Region Health Services has been informed that 146 samples from private wells have shown some type of bacterial contamination. These samples were taken between June 1 and June 5, 2000. York Region Health Services is not able to contact all affected homeowners individually about their results. If you are awaiting lab analysis of your private drinking water supply and are unsure of the bacteriological quality, it is advised that you follow the disinfection procedure listed below until results are confirmed by mail.
FOR DRINKING WATER
Boil water for five minutes. This will kill bacteria and make water safe for drinking
Add two drops of household bleach to one litre of water. This will disinfect the water. ( household bleach must contain 4%-5% chlorine and it must not have additives such as scents or colour- fast agents)
Public Health Inspectors are available to help you interpret your results once they are mailed to you and will offer information on well disinfection. They may be reached at the following locations:
| Health Connection: | Newmarket: |
| 1-800-361-5653 or | The Tannery |
| (905) 895-8004 | 465 Davis Drive |
| Newmarket, L3Y 2P1 | |
| (905) 895-4511 | |
| Richmond Hill: | Markham: |
| 10 Trench Street | Suite 202-203 |
| Level 1 | Unionville, Ontario |
| Richmond Hill L4C 5R6 | (905) 940-1333 |
For information on this release please contact : Susan Trgacevski Media Health Educator (905) 895-4511 ext 4101