Media Release
Private well and cistern owners can test their water for FREE
HAMILTON, ON - March 21, 2017 - On World Water Day March 22, 2017 Hamilton Public Health Services reminds rural well or cistern owners/users that year-round private residential well water bacterial testing is provided free by Public Health Ontario and Hamilton Public Health Services.
Residents with private wells and cisterns are reminded to test the safety of their private well supply, to know where their well or cistern is located, and make sure that their water supply is properly constructed and maintained to protect their drinking water from sources of contamination. Recommended times to test for bacteria are immediately following spring melt, in mid-summer and in the fall. The quality of your well water may vary throughout the year, especially during periods of heavy rain.
“Bacteria such as E.coli can contaminate a private water supply and put the health of those who use it at risk. Even relatively small changes such as a new crack in the well’s wall or a heavy rainfall can result in significant changes in water quality. To ensure consistently safe drinking water for you and your family start by testing your well or cistern’s water at least three different times of the year, each year.” - Dr. Julie Emili, Associate Medical Officer of Health
Quick facts
In 2016, approximately 20 per cent of 2352 well water samples submitted for testing had unsafe levels of bacteria present. Of these, 13 per cent had Coliform bacteria present and 7 per cent had E. coli bacteria present.
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Home & Neighbourhood
Public Health
Water
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