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Private water sources in bushfire-affected areas

Page contents: Introduction | How can I prevent my water tank from becoming contaminated? | What if it rains before I can disconnect the down pipes? | When can I start using my rainwater tank again for drinking water purposes? | Further information | Download document

Introduction

If you live in a bushfire-affected area you should be aware your water source could become contaminated from debris, ash or small dead animals. If the water tastes, looks or smells unusual do not drink it or give it to animals.

Also, you should not source water from a creek that has been affected by bushfire as the water may be contaminated.

Water drawn from deep bores or wells should continue to be safe to use.

How can I prevent my water tank from becoming contaminated?

The most effective way to prevent contamination of your water tank is to ensure that your tank is properly sealed and that you disconnect the down pipes to your tanks as soon as there is a bushfire risk until the roof has been cleaned after the bushfire (either manually or after a good flush of rain).

What if it rains before I can disconnect the down pipes?

• Water testing is not necessary as contamination is usually obvious. If your water has changed in taste, colour or smell, then it should not be used for drinking or food preparation.
• Water that is not suitable for drinking can still be used on the garden.

Dead animals on your roof, in your gutters or in your tank should be removed using gloves and disposed. Your tank water should be disinfected before reusing.

Water can be disinfected by bringing the water to a rolling boil, or using chlorine (bleach).

To disinfect your tank water using chlorine use the following instructions.

For every 1,000 litres of water in your tank you can safely add:

• approximately 125 mL or 125 g of 4% chlorine household bleach, or
• approximately 40 mL or 40 g of 12.5% chlorine liquid swimming pool or dairy factory chlorine, or
• approximately 8 mL or 8 g of 65% granular ‘swimming pool’ chlorine.
  
  (Note that 1 teaspoon is approximately 5 grams.)
  

After chlorinating, you should wait at least 24 hours before using the water to allow for microorganisms to be destroyed.

Avoid using household bleaches that contain detergents or other chemicals such as perfumes.

When can I start using my rainwater tank again for drinking water purposes?

If the water in your tank has not been contaminated the water should be safe to use. However, do not reconnect your down pipes until your roof has been cleaned.

• If the water tastes, smells, or looks unusual you should use an alternate supply for drinking.
• You should only clean the ash and debris from your roof and gutters when it is safe to do so.
• It should not be necessary to clean your tank after a fire, unless it is grossly polluted. If you wish to clean your tank it is recommended you engage a specialist contractor, as working in a confined space is dangerous.

Further information

• Regarding local water cartage or tank cleaners - contact the Environmental Health section of your local council.
• Regarding general fire safety advice – contact the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
• Relating to bushfires and public health - refer to the bushfire information fact sheets available from the Environmental Health Unit, Department of Health at: www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/emergency_mgmnt/.

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 Private water sources in bushfire-affected areas

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