Reminder: Boil Water Advisory – Whale Cove

17 August 2018

The Department of Health reminds that all residents of Whale Cove must boil their water before consumption until further notice.

This is a precautionary measure due to total coliform bacteria in the water system.

During a boil water advisory, all water for consumption must be brought to a rolling boil for a minimum of one full minute. It is essential that all water be boiled for the following uses:

• drinking;
• preparing infant formulas;
• preparing juices and ice cubes;
• washing fruits and vegetables;
• cooking; or
• brushing of teeth.

Water can be boiled either in a pot or kettle on a stove or an electric kettle without an automatic shut-off. The boil water advisory is only for the uses listed above.

Adults, adolescents and older children can shower, bathe or wash using tap water, but should avoid swallowing it. Infants, toddlers and people who have illnesses should be sponge bathed to reduce their chances of swallowing water.

You may still wash your hands with tap water. Make sure you rub all parts of the hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds.

The Department of Community and Government Services is installing a temporary water treatment plant designed to remove total coliforms. Installation of the plant is scheduled to be completed by mid-August. The plant will be operated during the summer seasons to mitigate the water quality issue until a permanent solution can be made. Updates will be provided to the community when available.

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Media Contact:

Nadine Purdy
Communications Manager
Department of Health
867-975-5712
npurdy@gov.nu.ca

NT5