August 29, 2003

Paisley - Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hazel Lynn has lifted the boil water advisory for the Paisley water system as of Friday, August 29, 2003. The results of two consecutive audit samples by the Public Health Unit showed that the water is safe for drinking. “I thank the residents of Paisley for their understanding and cooperation during the difficult 5 months since the boil water advisory was issued. As of today, the Paisley water is safe to drink, from your tap, without boiling,” says Dr. Lynn.

The system has been significantly upgraded over the past 5 months. A high-speed mixer and ultra violet light were installed. The clarifier was upgraded and a new chloramination process was introduced. As well, the operators received training for the new system. As a result of these improvements, the bacteriologic levels in the water are safe and the TriHaloMethane (THM) levels are reduced by a third.

Residents of Paisley should take the following precautions:

• Run cold-water faucets for 1 minute before using the water.
• Run drinking fountains for 1 minute before using the water.
• Flush all garden hoses by running cold water through them for 1 minute.
• Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.
• Drain and refill hot water heaters set below 45^oC [113^oF] (normal setting is 60^oC [140^oF]).

The Municipality of Arran-Elderslie plans to distribute further information door-to-door. If residents have additional questions they can call Public Health at 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

The Public Health Unit thanks the Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, the Ministry of the Environment, Ontario Clean Water Agency, and Henderson Paddon for their outstanding efforts in delivering safe water to the residents of Paisley.

Lou D’Alessandro

Public Health Manager

Public Health Unit

(519) 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456