For Immediate Release August
2, 2007
WIOTA UNDER BOIL ADVISORY AFTER WATER TESTS POSTITIVE FOR E. COLI
MEDIA CONTACT: Matthew Rhodes at (712) 243-1934
WIOTA – The DNR is issuing the City of Wiota, located east of
Atlantic, a boil water order for residents Thursday after routine
samples tested positive for E. coli bacteria.
The advisory is necessary because samples collected earlier this week
from Wiota’s water supply showed E. coli bacteria present Thursday.
The city’s 149 residents are being asked to boil water used for
drinking or cooking, tooth brushing, food preparation or any other
purpose involving human consumption. City water may still be used for
bathing.
“We’re requiring residents to boil their water until water samples
come back showing the water is safe to drink,” said Matt Rhodes, an
environmental specialist with the DNR Atlantic field office.
Boiling destroys bacteria present in the water. Water should be brought
to a boil, boiled one minute and then allowed to cool before using. More
information on disinfecting water is available on the EPA Safe Drinking
Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.
Wiota’s water supply comes from a well located east of town. The
source of the contamination is unknown. City officials will be
disinfecting and shock chlorinating the well in an effort to kill any
bacteria that might be present. Residents should continue to boil their
water until city officials notify them that water is bacteria-free and
safe to drink.
The city is contacting residents of the advisory through door-to-door
notification and also informing local media of the boil order.
Writer: Holly Williams
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