The Saskatchewan government is offering free water testing to residents who get their drinking water from wells and cisterns.
The province announced July 3 that the Saskatchewan Disease Control Laboratory will provide the free water tests.
The lab will conduct bacteriological tests on water from any private source that may have been affected by recent flooding.
The offer will remain in effect as long as flood conditions persist.
“This free testing can help residents affected by flooding make sure their drinking water is safe and free of waterborne disease,” said provincial health minister Dustin Duncan.
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Residents should contact their local health regions for information on eligibility for free testing, sample containers and relevant forms.
The Saskatchewan Water Security Agency offers site assessments of flooded wells and cisterns, including testing of water used as a primary source of drinking water.
“Many areas across the province are dealing with flooding issues, and we want to ensure everyone has access to safe drinking water,” said Scott Moe, the minister responsible for the agency.
In the meantime, residents who suspect that their water sources might have been affected are encouraged to use bottled water or other alternate sources that are known to be safe.
After floodwaters have receded, affected individuals are advised to shock chlorinate their wells and submit a water sample for further bacteriological testing.
Information on shock chlorination and water quality can be viewed online at www.wsask.ca/FloodWatch.
