Safe Drinking Water Focus of Clean Water Week

Safe drinking water is on everyone's mind these days. That's why the Department of the Environment has declared Oct 2-6 as Clean Water Week in Nova Scotia.

Acting Environment Minister Michael Baker said many people are feeling unsure about their drinking water, but don't know what to do to feel more confident that the water they consume is okay.

He said the Department is providing information through provincewide radio advertisements and on its website at http://www.gov.ns.ca/envi/ .

"Ever since Walkerton, people have been more and more interested in the safety of their drinking water," Mr. Baker said. "The theme of the week is Safe Drinking Water - Let's Keep it that Way.

"There are two points worth remembering," he said. "Nova Scotia has new rules to ensure that drinking water in all public places meets national health standards. Remember, unless that water is tested, there is no guarantee it meets acceptable standards."

Many Nova Scotians don't know how often water needs to be tested and for what possible contaminants. If you receive water from a well, your water should be tested regularly.

From Monday to Friday the department will be putting new facts on its website, including information on public drinking water supplies, private drinking water supplies, wells, lakes, bottled water, and natural water contaminants.

A toll-free number at 1-866-850-5335 has also been established for your water questions.

Some municipal water suppliers are also holding open houses to help educate the public about their own water supply. Call your local water supplier for more information.