News Release              For Immediate Release

January 17, 2006

Boil Water Advisory for the Town of Port Elgin

Port Elgin – Please be advised that as of 2:05 p.m. today the Grey Bruce Health Unit issued a Boil Water Advisory for the Town of Port Elgin (Town of Saugeen Shores) including those users in Saugeen Township connected to the Port Elgin drinking water system. The advisory is in response to high turbidity levels measured in the treated water system.  There is concern that high turbidity may interfere with chlorine disinfection in the water system, which could result in unacceptable bacterial levels.  The unacceptably high turbidity is likely a result of frazzle ice affecting the water intake and filtration system.  This damage has the potential to allow unchlorinated water to enter the distribution system.  The ice has compromised the supply volume and the municipality is asking residents to limit and conserve their use of water.

This advisory does not affect the residents of Southampton.

The water is not safe for use in the preparation of food or drink unless treated by boiling.  It should NOT be used for drinking, making infant formula and juices, adding to prepared foods, making ice, or washing fruits and vegetables.  It should not be used for brushing teeth.  For these purposes boiled water or bottled water should be used.  If boiled, the water should be brought to a rapid rolling boil and maintained at a boil for 1 minute. 

The Boil Water Advisory will remain in effect until water samples taken by the Public Health Unit indicate that the drinking water is safe.  The Town of Saugeen Shores will work closely with the Public Health Unit and the Ministry of the Environment to lift the Boil Water Advisory as soon as possible.

For more information, residents, businesses and visitors can contact the municipal office at (519) 832-2008, or the Public Health Unit at (519) 376-9420 or 1-800-263 3456.  For further information, visit the following web page - “How to use water safely during a ‘boil water advisory’”.

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For more information:

Lou D’Alessandro

Safe Water Program Manager

Grey Bruce Health Unit

Owen Sound Office

(519) 376-9420, ext. 223