Well Flooding

In general, if floodwaters have reached your well, or if you notice any change in the appearance or taste of your water, or even if you are unsure about the impact of flooding on the water quality in your area, you should boil all of the water used for drinking, making beverages or ice, cooking, brushing your teeth, washing dishes and washing areas of the skin that have been cut or injured (be sure to cool the water first). The water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least one full minute. Bottled water may also be used for these purposes.

NO – if your well has been flooded, you must first disinfect it and contact the Health Department for information on how to sample your water, and where to bring the for bacteriological testing.

It is important to disinfect both the well and all of the household plumbing to assure that all the infectious agents are killed. Both the amount of chlorine and the amount of time you allow it to remain in your system are important considerations. If the water is discolored, run the water until it is clear before starting the disinfection process.