When flood water covers residential water wells, damage can occur to the well and the well may become contaminated with
bacteria. If the well is not tightly sealed or protected, flood waters can enter the well and contaminate it with bacteria, parasites and viruses.
Sewage from damaged septic tanks, chemicals from agricultural operations, and other contaminants can be carried by the flood water and cause the well to become contaminated.
The three primary threats from a well what has been covered by flood waters are:
1. DANGER OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK
2. CONTAMINATION BY BACTERIA, PARASITES AND VIRUSES
3. DAMAGE TO WELL PUMP, PRESSURE TANK, PIPES AND ELECTRICAL
The new guide "What To Do If Your Well Is Covered by Flood Waters" offers a step by step easy-to-follow guide if your well is flooded.
A few of the topics covered include:
· What should I do if my well is covered by flood waters?
· How can I know if my water is safe to drink or not?
· Emergency Disinfection For Flooded Wells
· Shock Chlorination Using Chlorine Bleach
· What To Do If You Have an Existing Water Softener Or Filtration System
· Sampling & Testing Well Water After a Flood
· Important Warnings & Guidelines for Flooded Wells
Many homeowners use various types of water treatment systems such as water softeners, iron filters, and nitrate filters to treat their well water. If your well is flooded and becomes contained with coliform bacteria, then it is possible that your treatment system can also become contaminated. It is critical to sanitize these systems or hire a professional that can make sure your water softener or filter is properly sanitized.
