Is your drinking water safe?

Environmental health officers are asking for your help in identifying small water systems in the Fraser Health region.

Recently, the BC Ombudsman issued recommendations on how the provincial government and regional health authorities can improve the processes that ensure the safety of drinking water. One of the recommendations was for health authorities to increase their efforts to identify and regulate small water systems.

A small water system is a water supply that serves up to 500 individuals during any 24 hour period. It includes two or more single family residences connected to the same water supply or a commercial establishment such as a gas station, campsite or lodge that has its own water supply.

A safe water supply is important to the health of every individual and the well being of our communities. Water that looks clear and tastes okay is not necessarily safe. Water that is colourless, tasteless and odorless may actually harbor harmful bacteria and chemicals.

Once a small water system is identified, Fraser Health will work with the owner/operator to put measures in place to ensure the water source is protected and the water is safe to drink. This includes system assessments, routine water quality monitoring for bacteria and chemicals and emergency response planning.

If you receive your drinking water from a small water system that is not being regulated, please contact one of our drinking water program environmental health officers at 1-866-749-7900.

Find more information on obtaining a Water Supply System Operating Permit.

Fraser Health provides a wide range of integrated health services to the largest and fastest growing population in B.C. The health authority is committed to improving the health of the population and the quality of life of more than 1.5 million people living in communities from Burnaby to White Rock to Hope.
 
For media inquiries, please contact:
Fraser Health Media Pager | 604-450-7881