Yass Valley Council has issued a warning that drinking water in the region is "unsafe".
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In a statement released at 9pm last night, the council blamed "significant flood waters reaching Yass Dam" for causing problems with water treatment, making drinking water in the Yass water supply system (which affects Yass, Bowning and Binalong) unsafe.
"Water used for drinking or food preparation should be brought to a rolling boil to make it safe," advised the statement.
"Kettles with automatic shut off switches can do this. Water should then be allowed to cool and stored in a clean container with a lid and refrigerated.
"Bottled water or cool boiled water should be used for drinking, washing uncooked food (such as salad vegetables and fruit), making ice, cleaning teeth, gargling and pet's drinking water.
"Dishes should be washed in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher. Children should take bottled water or cool boiled water to school.
"If you cannot boil the water, unscented household bleach (containing 4-5 per cent available chlorine) may be used.
"Add two drops of bleach to one litre of water (or four drops if the water is cloudy), mix well, and allow to stand for 30 minutes before use."
The council said that they are working to fix the problem, but that this advice should be followed until further notice.
Special considerations can be found for various groups on the NSW Health website:
- Schools and childcare centres - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/water/Pages/schools.aspx
- Commercial establishments serving food or drinks - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/water/Pages/foodfacts.aspx
- Using water header tanks - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/water/Pages/watertanks.aspx
- Swimming pools and spas - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/water/Pages/pools.aspx
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