Boat on St Clair River (BlackburnNews.com photo by Dave Dentinger)Boat on St Clair River (BlackburnNews.com photo by Dave Dentinger)
Sarnia

Do not use advisory issued for private drinking water users of the St. Clair River

Private drinking water users of the St. Clair River near Hill and Lyndoch St. are being advised not to use their tap water.

Lambton Public Health's Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Karalyn Dueck said diesel fuel is suspected to have contaminated the water supply. Lambton Public Health has confirmed the fuel is a result of a train derailment that happened around 2 p.m. Saturday.

Until further notice, residents who have a private water system that pulls from the St. Clair River are to avoid using it and to avoid any skin contact with the contaminated water.

Lambton Public Health is also advising residents to avoid swimming in the area.

Aamjiwnaang First Nation Emergency Planning is also advising the community to not swim in the river for the next two to three days, which also includes using all docks.

There have been no known reports of illnesses associated with the incident. If someone becomes ill, they recommend seeking medical attention.

Lambton Public Health is monitoring the situation and will notify users once the incident has been resolved and the advisory has been lifted.

Until further notice, you must use an alternative source of safe or bottled water for the following:

  • bathing

  • drinking

  • gargling, spraying, brushing your teeth, or rinsing dentures

  • hand washing

  • household cleaning

  • laundry

  • making ice, juices, puddings, or other mixes

  • preparing food, including the washing of fruits and vegetables

  • preparing infant food and baby formula

  • swimming

  • washing dishes

  • washing your hands

For more health information contact Lambton Public Health at 519-383-8331 or visit their website.

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