Bobcaygeon drinking water system odour not a safety concerns for residents

Kawartha Lakes – Kawartha Lakes is providing an update regarding reports of an odour in the Bobcaygeon Drinking Water System received on Wednesday, December 10. 

The odour experienced by a small group of residents was caused by paint fumes migrating into the water system during painting work inside a sealed treatment room at the Bobcaygeon Water Treatment Plant. Upon receiving the initial concerns, OCWA shut down the water treatment plant immediately, and the community continued to be supplied by the water tower, where no odour was present. 

At no time did paint or chemicals enter the drinking water supply, as appropriate containment measures were in place. 

Sample results confirmed that there was no risk to the safety of the drinking water. The organic compound that caused the odour is detectable by humans at very low concentrations and, while unpleasant, does not pose a health and safety concern. 

No Boil Water Advisory or Drinking Water Advisory was issued for the Bobcaygeon Drinking Water System at any time during this incident. 

Residents who are still experiencing an odour are advised to flush their taps for at least five minutes. If the odour persists, residents are encouraged to contact Kawartha Lakes for further investigation. 

If you have questions or concerns regarding your drinking water at any time, please contact the municipality directly. For additional information on water quality and treatment in Kawartha Lakes, please visit the Water Quality page on our website. For Annual Drinking Water Reports, please visit the Water and Wastewater page. 

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