IHA lifts Do-Not-Use order for Kootenay River, but not Lemon Creek or Slocan River
By Interior Health Authority
Residents of the area impacted by the July 26 jet fuel spill at Lemon Creek are advised of the latest health update:
All Do Not Use water restrictions on the Kootenay River above and below Brilliant Dam have been removed. This means that water drawn from the Kootenay River may be consumed, and that it is now safe for recreational purposes from a health perspective. However, given the presence of containment booms on these waters,recreational users are advised to avoid these areas. The wires and chains used to keep the booms secured are a safety hazard.
Domestic Water System Flushing Procedures are now available on the Interior Health website (www.interiorhealth.ca).
Until further notice, a Do Not Use order for Drinking Water and Recreational Use remains in effect for Lemon Creek and Slocan River. In the majority of cases, well water is not affected by this order. However, shallow wells close to the creek or rivers, particularly those in gravel/sandy soils, may be impacted. Residents should not use well water if there is a fuel smell in the well or at any tap.
Professionals with knowledge about contaminated sites and biology who have been contracted by Executive Flight Centre continue to do testing of affected water. This testing will help determine when the remaining Do Not Use order can be lifted.
Garden vegetables, fruit, eggs, and dairy milk that were contacted by the fuel vapor are SAFE to consume as long as they do not smell like fuel or have a fuel sheen.Interior Health is advising residents to thoroughly wash fruit and vegetables with alternate water sources to remove any dirt and debris prior to consumption.
Residents with questions or concerns regarding drinking water and food safety should contact IH Health Protection at 250-420-2220 for more information. Anyone with specific health questions or concerns should contact their family physician.
IH will provide updates related to health impacts as new information is available.
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