Yarra Valley Water has issued a notice this morning (Fri.) for residents of 88 suburbs to boil their water after a chlorinator was put out of action by last night’s storms.

Suburbs affected are:

Yarra Valley Water’s statement says:

“We’ve become aware of a potential water quality issue affecting 88 suburbs due to electrical damage caused by storms overnight.

“The storm damaged a chlorinator which has resulted in untreated water entering the system.

“We are urging customers not to drink their water unless it is boiled.

“We’ve notified the Department of Health and Human Services and more information will follow.

Boiled Water Notice – Yarra Valley Water

“Power outages overnight caused undisinfected water from Silvan Dam to enter the water supply system. Power has now returned and the initial issue has been addressed, however undisinfected water is still within some areas. This has resulted in potentially unsafe water entering the reticulation system and customer taps. The power has now returned but water in your taps may still be affected.

“Yarra Valley Water is working closely with the DHHS and as a precautionary measure, a boil water advisory is being issued until this issue is completely resolved.
This applies to 88 suburbs listed.

“Yarra Valley Water is working with Melbourne Water, who owns and manages Silvan Dam, to resolve the issue for our customers. We expect water supply to be back to normal later today (Friday 28 August). We will provide updates on our website www.yvw.com.au.

“Our teams are working around the clock to address this issue.

“Until we can guarantee that the water is safe to drink again, we ask customers to boil their water.

“To ensure your water is safe

If you live in these suburbs, we advise you to bring water to a rolling boil before drinking, preparing beverages, washing and preparing food, preparing baby formula, brushing teeth and making ice until further notice.

Boil water in a kettle with an automatic cut-off or on the stove until it boils strongly, with a rapid stream of air-bubbles from the bottom of the kettle or pan.
Once you have boiled the water, allow it to cool.
You can store it in the fridge in clean, closed containers for drinking or food preparation – you do not need to boil it again.
Take care not to injure or scald yourself when you handle boiling water, especially around children
Unboiled water can still be used for showering and bathing, flushing toilets, washing dishes and clothes and garden watering. Ensure you do not drink water when you are in the bath and take extra care when bathing infants.
Unboiled water can still be used to wash your hands

“Emergency drinking water is available

“We are working to ensure that emergency drinking water is available to those who need it. If you have special needs and require assistance, please contact us on 13 2762.

What to do If you feel unwell

“Undisinfected water can cause gastro-like symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact your GP and advise your GP about this notice.

This is a precaution

“Boiling water is recommended as a precaution to minimise any health risks. Special care should be taken with young children, people whose immune system is compromised and the elderly.

“We are working to return water supply to normal as soon as possible. If you have further concerns, please call us 24 hours a day on 13 2762.”