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PA DEP Provides Update on Bacterial Contamination Investigation in Armstrong County
'Do Not Use' Advisory Remains in Effect for Shadyside Village Residents
PITTSBURGH, Dec. 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection today reminded residents ofShadyside Village in WestFranklin Township,Armstrong County, not to use their water for drinking, cooking or bathing as the agency continues investigating a bacterial contamination in the water supply.
"At this time, we have not pinpointed the source of the contamination, but the high level of fecal coliform in the water supply suggests that the water has come in contact with untreated sewage," DEP Southwest Regional Director Kenneth Bowman said. "The contamination is great enough that contact with cuts or open sores could pose a danger, so all residents have been advised not to use the water for anything other than flushing toilets."
Residents of about 40 homes are affected by the do-not-use advisory, which took effect on Nov. 26. A water buffalo is on site to provide safe drinking water to the residents.
The department hopes to locate the source of bacteria by tracing the paths of dyes that were placed into the system today.
"We are continuing to monitor the level of bacteria and will reevaluate the system when those test results are available," Bowman said. "If the problem can't be resolved, options include drilling a new well or buying water from another water system."
DEP received complaints from residents after two customers were hospitalized with intestinal disorders. DEP responded immediately by taking lab samples, which tested positive for fecal coliform.
DEP is working with the Pennsylvania Department of Health to minimize any potential human health risks associated with this situation.
For more information on drinking water, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us, keyword: Public Notification.
CONTACT: Teresa Candori
(717) 787-1323
SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
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