originally posted on August 13, 2016

GREENWOOD, La. – Water customers in the town of Greenwood are being warned to boil their water before using after tests detected the presence of Fecal Coliform (E.Coli) bacteria.

This is just another chapter in the ongoing problems with Greenwood’s water supply. Boil advisories have been issued multiple times this summer. Customers also have been asked to conserve their usage.

They also are plagued by low water pressure and broken pipes. A new water treatment system is under construction.

E. Coli can make people sick. Particularly concerning are people with weakened immune systems.

Bacterial contamination can occur when increased run-off enters the drinking water source (for example following heavy rains).  It can also happen due to a break in the distribution system (pipes) or a failure in the water treatment process.

Possible cross contamination during the collection process.

What should I do?  What does this mean?

Do not drink the water without boiling it first.  Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.

Fecal Coliforms and E. Coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in the wastes can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children and people with severely compromised immune systems.

The symptoms above are not caused only by organisms in drinking water.  If you experience any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice.  People at increased risk should seek advice from their health care providers about drinking this water.

For more information, contact Town of Greenwood at 938-7261 or  stop by 9381 Greenwood Rd. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791.

Information is also available by calling Mayor Frank Stawasz at 938-7261.