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| Health home > Environmental health home > Emergency management > Flood > Private water sources in flood affected areas | |||
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Private water sources in flood affected areasPage contents: Introduction | Is my private water source safe? | What should I do if I suspect my water supply is contaminated? | Will boiling or disinfecting water make it safe? | When can I start using my water supply again? | More information | Download document IntroductionThis information has been prepared for flood affected residents that do not have access to mains (reticulated water) and rely on private water sources such as rainwater or groundwater for drinking and use in and around the home. If your area has been affected by flooding your private water source may be contaminated with flood water. Flood water is likely to contain harmful microorganisms, debris and chemicals from overflowing sewage systems, septic tanks, agricultural or industrial wastes.Is my private water source safe?If the water in your tank has not been affected by flood waters, the water should be safe to use. If your water supply tastes, looks or smells unusual do not use it for drinking, bathing or for pets.If your private water source has been affected by flood waters or if your private water supply system is damaged, consider your water source contaminated. Water supplies sourced from roof-collected rainwater and stored in above ground tanks or deep bores properly cased with an above ground wellhead should continue to be safe for use, provided the structure has not been damaged.Water should not be drawn from a river or creek that has been affected by flood water as the water may be contaminated. If your water supply is from a shallow groundwater source (e.g. a well) that has been affected by floodimpacted rivers or streams, consider this source contaminated.If your water is stored in an underground tank that may have, or has been subject to flood water inundation, consider this water source contaminated. What should I do if I suspect my water supply is contaminated?If your water supply tastes, looks or smells unusual do not use it for drinking, bathing or for pets.You should arrange an alternative drinking water supply. Contact your local council for a list of water carting contractors in your area. Will boiling or disinfecting water make it safe?Boiling and disinfecting water kills harmful microorganisms, however this will not effectively remove chemical hazards. Flood-affected rivers and streams may contain chemical contaminants from activities such as farming or toxic blue-green algae. Boiling or disinfecting the water will not make your water safe for drinking or domestic use.When can I start using my water supply again?Check your tank for structural soundness including cracks, debris, dead birds or other small animals. Dead birds or other small animals found in gutters or within the tank should be removed. Always use gloves and use a plastic bag for disposal. Disinfect your tank as described in the Department of Health publication Your private drinking water supply.If you have an underground tank that has been contaminated do not attempt to empty the tank while the surrounding ground is still saturated. Emptying water before the surrounding ground has dried out may result in damage to the tank and associated plumbing. Do not enter a tank. Working in confined spaces is dangerous and should only be undertaken by a professional.Once it is safe to empty your tank a tank cleaning professional should be engaged. The inside of the tank should be hosed out with clean water and sanitised. Any associated plumbing, guttering, downpipes and roof structures inundated by flood waters or storm debris will also need to be cleaned and sanitised. After your tank has been cleaned and sanitised, refill the tank with water from a source known to be safe. The water should also be appropriately disinfected using enough chlorine to give an initial chlorine dose of 5 mg/L. Refer to the Department of Health publication Your private drinking water supply.Contact a Licensed Plumbing Practitioner for reconnection and commissioning of your system. Shallow groundwater sources affected by flood water should be assessed by a water professional. The impacted groundwater storage well may require the contaminated water to be pumped out and disinfected prior to use.If you know or suspect that electrical equipment associated with your water supply system has been affected by floods, have the equipment inspected and declared fit for use by a licensed electrician before use. More informationLocal water carters or tank cleaners:Contact the Environmental Health section of your local council or consult your local business directory. Bores, roofing material, tank systems or
ancillary equipment on your property: Refer to your local business telephone directory for licensed service providers. Health advice:  Your private drinking water supply booklet (1.3mb, pdf)Guidance on use of rainwater tanks, enHealth Council www.health.gov.au Groundwater and bore construction: Additional information regarding public health and floods can be downloaded from the Environmental Health Unit emergency management. For further advice contact the Environmental Health Unit of the Department of Health on 1300 761 874. Download documents
Private water sources in flood affected areas
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Last updated:
20 January, 2011
This website is managed and authorised by Environmental Health Unit, Health Protection Branch, Wellbeing, Integrated Care and Ageing Division of the Department of Health, Victorian State Government, Australia |
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