Precautionary Boil Water Advisory in effect for Vars Communal Well

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has issued a precautionary Boil Water Advisory for the area of Vars due to low pressure in the communal well system. A reduction in pressure in the water distribution system means that groundwater or soil contamination could potentially seep into the watermain pipes through small cracks or leaks.

This advisory is in effect until further notice.

Early Tuesday morning, City staff will be going door to door in Vars delivering notices to affected residents.

Water users in the affected area are asked to bring their water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for all consumption purposes, including drinking, making juice, ice and infant formula, as well as for use in food preparation.

After boiling, the water should be left to cool before being used, or it should be placed in clean containers to cool in the refrigerator. Boiled water should be used when brushing teeth. Boiled water should also be used to rinse dishes after washing. Other non-consumption uses, such as showering, are safe.

If you are unable to boil water, you should consume only bottled water.  More info available here: What you should know during a boil water advisory .

This advisory will be rescinded once Ottawa Public Health is satisfied that water quality has been restored and tap water is safe to drink.  Bringing the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute will kill the microorganisms.

Additional information is available at ottawa.ca , or by calling 3-1-1, or Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744 .  You can also connect with Ottawa Public Health on Facebook and Twitter (@ottawahealth).