High water levels and flood concerns have prompted an advisory from Lambton Public Health.
Public Health Inspector Teresa Warren is asking residents with private wells to test their water supply as soon as possible if the well has flooded.
She said the current conditions caused by rain could allow harmful bacteria to enter the drinking water supply, making it unsafe for consumption.
"Until you can test your well water, use bottled water for daily use including drinking, making infant formula or juices, cooking, making ice, washing fruits and vegetables, and brushing teeth,” Warren said. “Alternatively you can boil your water rapidly for at least one minute before use.”
Warren said once the floodwaters have receded, the well should be disinfected and tested at least three times, at one-week intervals, before the water is used for drinking.
"The test for bacteria (total coliform and E. coli) and water sample kits are free. Water samples must be dropped off within 24 hours of being taken."
Water sample kits can be picked up or dropped off at the health unit's main site at 160 Exmouth Street in Point Edward and the CEE hospital lab in Petrolia.
