Boil advisory in place for some areas in Rocky View County: AHS

A boil water advisory is out for residences supplied by Salt Box Coule Water Works Systems in Rocky View County, Alberta Health Services (AHS) said Friday.

Water systems affected include the Calling Horse Estates Waterworks system, Windmill Water Coop Waterworks, and Deer Springs.

All residents and businesses supplied by these systems are advised to bring water to a “rolling boil” for at least one minute before consumption, including drinking, brushing teeth, cleaning raw foods, preparing infant formula or juices and other uses.

For hand-washing, AHS recommends washing with soap and water and using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing more than 60 per cent alcohol after drying your hands.

Officials say water for bathing or washing clothes does not need to be boiled.

This advisory will remain in effect until further notice, with AHS adding it’s trying to solve the issue.

“Corrective action is taking place to address this matter and restore appropriate water supply. The advisory will remain in place until such time that water is restored and water quality assured,” the notice reads.

“AHS Environmental Public Health officers will continue to monitor the situation, including sampling and testing of the drinking water to ensure it is safe for consumption.”

The advisory comes after the Alberta government implemented the largest water-sharing agreements to combat the risk of severe drought on Friday.

Calgary is also under a water reduction advisory, which was announced shortly after the provincial announcement.

Meanwhile, Alberta Municipalities, farmers, the energy industry, and wildfire officials, are all considering a wide range of tools and approaches as the drought situation worsens.

Alberta is at risk of severe drought this year, following several years of extremely dry conditions, and a warm and dry El Niño winter.

In the meantime, more information can be found online.

With files from Lauryn Heintz