The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) issued a boil water advisory for the East Pressure Zone of Midland following a recent significant water main break Monday. The break occurred at the east end of Midland in an area between Yonge Street and Highway 12, and William and King streets.
While repairs are underway, The advisory remains in effect until laboratory tests confirm the safety of the water. “It is anticipated that these results will be available in the next one-to-two days,” the health unit said in a press release.
Affected Areas and Precautions
The advisory affects residents who are in the East Pressure Zone. This includes areas east of Yonge Street, south of Highway 12, and west of William and King streets. The advisory is expected to be in effect until further notice, and will be lifted once the safety of the water has been confirmed in laboratory tests.
The health unit cautions that people most at risk for illness from contaminated water include the elderly, the very young, and people with weakened immune systems.
Midland residents are asked to boil their water before use or, as an alternative, use bottled water or commercially treated water from an approved source. This advice also extends to drinking water for pets.
Guidelines for Water Use During a Boil Water Advisory
To prepare your water for use, bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute and allow it to cool before:
- Drinking
- Using for making ice cubes
- Using for brushing teeth
- Using to prepare food and beverages
- Using to wash fruits and vegetables
Safe Water Use for Other Purposes
Adults, teens, and older children can use water that has not been boiled for baths and showers. Small children can be given sponge-baths. Do not swallow any water used for showers or baths. It is safe to do laundry with the water.
Importance of Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is important for preventing the spread of germs and should continue during a boil water advisory. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing food.
Further Information and Updates
For more information on safe drinking water during a boil water advisory, visit smdhu.org/BoilWater or call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The SMDHU will issue updates on the boil water advisory as they become available. Residents are encouraged to check the SMDHU website and social media channels for the latest information.
Avoiding Illness
It is important to take precautions to avoid illness during a boil water advisory. Boiling water is the most effective way to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. Bottled water and commercially treated water from an approved source are also safe alternatives.
Following these simple steps will help ensure the safety of your family during this boil water advisory.
Keeping Midland Running
The water main break is a major inconvenience for residents of Midland. However, the town’s infrastructure team is working diligently to repair the break and restore safe drinking water to the community. The boil water advisory is a necessary precaution to protect the health and safety of residents.
The health unit will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to protect their health.
