Drinking Water Warning
City of Hiawatha water system has high levels of nitrate
THE CITY OF HIAWATHA has exceeded the state and federal maximum contaminant level (MCL) allowed for nitrate (as N) in drinking water. Concentrations of 11.0 milligrams per liter (mg/l) were found in a sample collected on December 1, 2014. Nitrate above 10 mg/l is considered to be an acute MCL violation.
What to do?
-
DO Not GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. Infants below the age of six months who drink 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 heath deteriorating over 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 nitrates should 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.
-
Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they can’t process nitrates in the same way adults can) However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your doctor.
Source of Nitrate
Nitrate in drinking water can come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off). Levels of nitrate can vary in drinking water throughout the year. The City of Hiawatha will let consumers know when the amount of nitrate is again below the limit.
Corrective Action
The City of Hiawatha is continuing to test the water and is working to correct the problem. The City is currently working with an engineering firm and investigating funding for a water treatment plant proposal for nitrate removal.
For additional information, please contact Rick Koenig at (785) 742 -7850 or stop at City Hall at 701 Oregon Street, or call (785) 742-7417.
This notice is being sent to you by City of Hiawatha, State Water System ID# KS 8500.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Effingham woman killed Friday in Atchison wreck
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Atchison man involved in fatal NW MO crash
One injured in Nemaha Co wreck
Rural Horton man arrested on multiple drug charges
Street lights to be discussed at Monday city meeting
Meteorologist Spencer: Geometric Watch means electronic disruptions
Two file to challenge local legislator
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
USD 430 Board accepts resignations, approves new hires
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Truck fire at CGB facility in Falls City
BC's Pate remembered by students, college family
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
Moran works for Mayetta veteran's recognition
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Contested races in Tuesday Primary Election in Nebraska
LATEST STORIES
MHMA Mock Trial Team sees natl success
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
Commission holds work session on street lights
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Senator Ricketts staff to visit Falls City and Auburn
Richardson County Sheriff provides updates to Commissioners
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash