An issue at a treatment plant in Elmore, north-east of Bendigo, has caused contamination of drinking water in the town, resulting in a days-long ban on the consumption of all tap water.
Residents have been advised that even boiling the water will not make it safe to use.
While a “do not drink tap water” advisory is in place, authorities have cautioned people to not use tap water for anything that could result in ingestion, including washing food and brushing teeth.
The initial warning came at 1.30pm on Christmas Day, after an issue with the alarm system at the Elmore Water Treatment Plant caused the town’s clear water storage tank to be drained.
Additionally, at the time of the fault, the region was experiencing heavy rain and intense weather.
Coliban Water released a statement reminding people that “boiling water will not remove any potential contaminants that may enter the distribution system if there is pressure loss in the system”.
“Staff are door knocking in the community today to ensure everyone is aware of this advice,” Coliban Water said.
“If you have an elderly or vulnerable neighbour, please check on them, or let us know so we can support them.”
Coliban Water advise that the water will not be drinkable for several days.
“We will be adding chlorine to the water supply in the short term, as we resume water production,” they said.
“We expect it will be several days before Elmore’s water network returns to normal, and before the ‘do not drink’ advisory can be lifted.”
A water trailer has been set up at the Elmore Water Treatment Plant, at the base of Elmore water tower and residents are advised to bring a water container to fill.
(SKY NEWS)
