NORTHERN MICHIGAN (WPBN/WGTU) — Health departments across northern Michigan are warning people to take precautions with their wells and drinking water amid flood conditions.
District Health Department 4, which serves Alpena, Cheboygan, Montmorency, and Presque Isle Counties, is urging people to test water for contamination.
“If your well has been flooded or there is standing water around your well casing, you cannot rule out the possibility of contamination in your well or water system without testing it for coliform bacteria,” says Joe Scheele, Environmental Health Director at DHD4. “It is important to test from the pressure tank, as that is typically the first spot a homeowner can draw water from and is indicative of the water quality coming directly from the well.”
If flooding occurs around your well, your drinking water may become contaminated. Wells in pits are especially at risk.
Dirty water can enter through the well cap or vent. This can increase the risk of illness. Flood water may carry bacteria, viruses, sewage, organic debris, pesticides, and other chemicals.
If you suspect your water is unsafe, you should obtain water from a known, safe source for drinking, cooking, and preparing food.
What to do Immediately:
Do NOT drink the water Use bottled water or water from a safe source Boil water for at least five minutes, if necessary
Well Care After Flooding:
Remove debris from around the well Flush the system using a hose for at least two hours after water clears Once clear, flush all home plumbing Do not turn on your system until after a professional has inspected it, flood water can damage wiring and pumps, increasing the risk of electric shock
Disinfect the Well:
Have a professional registered well contractor disinfect drilled, driven, or bored wells.