The George Water Supply is recommending to use bottled water or an alternative source for drinking or cooking.
DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS UNDER 6 MONTHS OLD OR USE IT TO MAKE INFANT FORMULA
The George Water Supply has experienced flooding in the water plant and cannot disinfect. Due to the higher level of nitrate in the source water, and the potential for bacterial contamination, it is being recommended that bottled water or an alternative source be used for drinking and cooking.
● DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. Infants below the age of six months who drink water or formula made with the water containing nitrate in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome. Blue baby syndrome is indicated by blueness of the skin.Symptoms in infants can develop rapidly, with health deteriorating over a period of days. If symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
● Water, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water or other water low in nitratesshould be used for infants until further notice.
● DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level. Excessive boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.
For more information, please contact Todd Klein, Water Superintendent at 712-578-1221. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1(800) 426-4791.
When water service is restored, there may be air in your water piping and the water may be discolored. It is recommended to run the first water from a faucet that does not have an aerator screen, such as a bathtub or hose bib. Open the faucet slowly to allow the air to escape. Once the water is flowing, allow the faucet to run until it is clear. The water may be cloudy at first due to air in the water or particles that dislodged as the pipes filled with water. This should clear fairly quickly. If water is cloudy or colored throughout the house and it does not clear after allowing the water to run for several minutes, use an alternative source such as bottled water and contact the person listed above.
When the system resumes normal operations, bacteria samples will be collected. This advisory is a precaution until bacterial sample results are available. You will be notified when the results are available and the advisory is lifted.
The system is working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to resolve the situation.
