The City of Mercer Island reports that test results from water samples collected Saturday have been analyzed and are generally favorable.
Samples collected today (Sunday) are already being processed and results are expected early Monday morning, before 8:00 a.m. Updates will be available Monday morning following this next round of test results.
If test results on Monday morning are all clear, the Boil-Water Advisory will likely be lifted in consultation with the State Department of Health.
It should be noted that, while none of the samples collected yesterday and analyzed today contained E. Coli, one sample tested positive for Total Coliform. In regular situations, an occasional reading for Total Coliform is not uncommon, and does not in itself indicate any health hazard. Most coliform bacteria are a normal part of the environment and they do not cause illness. For more information on Coliform and testing visit:http://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/DrinkingWater/Contaminants/Coliform
The City will be working with the Department of Health to further review the Total Coliform result and determine if it warrants any additional measures.
City Utility crews inspected system facilities and storage, and found no abnormalities. Crews have flushed water mains in potential problem areas and are ensuring that chlorine levels are adequate throughout the distribution system.
Mercer Island School District
The Mercer Island School District will be closed tomorrow, Monday, September 29. Please continue to check the District’s website for updated information at www.mercerislandschools.org
Restaurants
Public Health – Seattle & King County maintains its closure order for all 62 permitted food establishments on the Island, including restaurants, coffee shops, and delis. Health inspectors note that these establishments have been extremely cooperative. While reasonably concerned about the economic impacts, they also recognize the importance of protecting the health of their customers.
Permitted food establishments with questions can contact the City’s water hotline at 206-275-7800. They will be connected with officials from Public Health-Seattle & King County.
Health Reminders For Residents
For residents boiled or purchased bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, and food preparation until further notice. Bring the water to a boil, let it boil for at least 1 minute, and let it cool before using. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms that could potentially be in the water.
Free cases of bottled water are available at the Community Center ( 8236 SE 24th Street, Mercer Island) for those in need, as of 11:30am Sunday.
This notice is being issued following consultation with the Washington State Department of Health and Public Health – Seattle & King County.
For the latest updated information, visit the City’s website at www.mercergov.org
Or call the City’s water hotline at 206-275-7800
