Residents of Yass and surrounds near Canberra have been told not to drink their tap water after wild weather caused issues with the treatment process.
Recent rainfalls and floods in the Yass River catchment have caused problems with water treatment, making drinking water unsafe, the Yass Valley Council has warned.
A “boil water alert” is in place, meaning residents must boil all water they intend to drink or use for food preparation.
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Residents in Yass, Murrumbateman, Binalong and Bowning were first warned their water was unsafe on Wednesday, February 14.
In an update on Monday, the council confirmed the alert remained in place and urged residents to continue to boil their water.
Once boiled, water should be allowed to cool and stored in a container to be refrigerated.
This water can then be used for drinking, washing food, making ice, cleaning teeth and pet drinking water, the council suggested.
“Everyone, particularly people caring for young children, should be careful to avoid scalding when you are heating and then cooling the water,” the council said.
“Dishes should be washed in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher.
“Children should take bottled water or cool boiled water to school.”
Tap water is safe for bathing, but carers and parents are advised to consider sponge baths for children, as there is a potential risk if the water is swallowed during washing.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water NSW staff working to disinfect the water.
Pools in the region will remain closed until the alert is lifted.
Residents are urged to follow the health advice until further notice.
“Council is pleased to advise that the water is starting to stabilise,” it said on Monday.
“However, we are awaiting approval from NSW Health before proceeding with the next step.
“We understand the inconvenience this has caused and appreciate your patience.”
