Access to clean and safe drinking water is essential for preventing the spread of communicable diseases. Contaminated water can serve as a medium for various pathogens, leading to outbreaks of illnesses such as cholera, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A. Ensuring a safe water supply involves careful selection of water sources, proper system design, regular testing, and effective treatment methods.

Choosing a Water Source

Groundwater Sources:

• Wells: Groundwater accessed through wells is generally less susceptible to contamination compared to surface water. However, proper construction and maintenance are crucial to prevent pollutants from entering the water supply.

• Springs: Natural springs can provide clean water but must be protected from surface contamination and require regular monitoring.

Surface Water Sources:

• Lakes, Rivers, and Streams: Surface water is more vulnerable to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and animal waste. It often requires more extensive treatment to ensure safety for consumption.

Groundwater Systems

Well Construction and Maintenance:

• Location: Wells should be situated away from potential sources of contamination, such as septic systems and livestock areas.Government of British Columbia

• Construction: Proper casing and sealing are essential to prevent surface water and contaminants from entering the well.

• Types of Wells:

  • Drilled Wells: Typically deeper and less prone to contamination.

  • Driven Wells: Shallower and more susceptible to surface contamination.

  • Dug Wells: Wide and shallow, making them highly vulnerable to contamination.Government of British Columbia

Surface Water Systems

Design and Licensing:

• Intake Protection: Intake structures should be designed to minimize the entry of debris and contaminants.

• Licensing: In British Columbia, using surface water for domestic purposes requires obtaining a water license.Government of British Columbia

Water Testing

Regular Monitoring:

• Bacteriological Testing: Regular testing for coliform bacteria helps detect contamination.

• Chemical Testing: Periodic analysis for nitrates, metals, and other chemicals ensures the water meets safety standards.

Solving Water Quality Problems

Common Issues and Solutions:

• Bacterial Contamination: Disinfection methods, such as chlorination, can eliminate harmful microorganisms.

• Chemical Contaminants: Treatment systems like activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis units can remove specific chemicals.

• Physical Contaminants: Sediment filters help remove particles that cause turbidity.

Disinfecting Your Well

Shock Chlorination:

• A process involving the addition of a strong chlorine solution to the well to eliminate bacterial contamination.

• After disinfection, the system should be flushed, and water should be retested to confirm safety.

Preventing Water Quality Problems

Well Head Protection:

• Sealing: Ensure the well cap is secure and watertight.

• Surface Drainage: Grade the area around the well to direct surface water away.

Surface Water Protection:

• Buffer Zones: Maintain vegetation around water sources to filter runoff.

• Exclusion: Prevent livestock and wildlife from accessing water sources directly.

Supplying Water During Emergencies

Emergency Disinfection Methods:

• Boiling: Bringing water to a rolling boil for at least one minute effectively kills most pathogens.

• Chemical Disinfection: Using household bleach (unscented) in appropriate amounts can disinfect water.

Alternative Water Sources:

• Bottled Water: Keep an emergency supply of bottled water for situations where regular sources are compromised.

• Water Hauling: Transporting water from safe sources may be necessary during prolonged emergencies.