Health officer warns against tainted wells
By The Chronicle, 3/3/2001
The casing of private wells or private lines that connect to homes or businesses may have received damage during Wednesday's earthquake, say local health officials.
''It is important everyone have access to safe drinking water,'' said Lewis County Health Officer Dr. Diana Yu.
Anyone on a private well who notices water that looks cloudy or contains sediment should run the water through an outside tap to reduce the amount of particulate in the pipes and water heater, Yu advises.
If one continues to notice fine sediment in one's water, one may filter the water by pouring it through a coffee filter.
Those who think the earthquake may have caused breakage or broken seals to wells or connecting lines may boil the water for three minutes. Place the water in a clean container, cover with a clean cloth, and refrigerate for later use, experts advise.
The water should also be tested by a certified water laboratory for the presence of bacteria. Testing may be done at the Lewis County Health Department, 360 N.W. North St., Chehalis.
Test bottles are available at the health building and may be purchased for $18. The bottles may be brought back on Mondays and Tuesdays until 5 p.m. and Wednesdays until noon.
For information, telephone 740-1222 or 1-800-562-6130, Ext. 1222.
This page created and maintained by Chehalis River Council
Send comments or questions to the: Chehalis River Council