The Wakefield spring remains closed while the municipality awaits further water quality tests. A boil water advisory is in effect for everyone who has taken water from the spring since Nov. 9.
The spring was closed on Dec. 2 after testing on Nov. 30 found it to be contaminated with bacteria, making it unsafe for consumption. Despite advising residents not to consume any water retrieved from the spring since Nov. 9, and erecting caution tape around it, the municipality said that the tape and a "non-drinking water" sign have been removed on three separate occasions.
"It is important to remember that access to the spring will only be permitted once the water is safe to drink and a formal notice is issued," the municipality wrote in a release on its website on Dec. 9. "The municipality reminds you that if you wish to consume water drawn from the spring after November 9, 2021, you must bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute."
The boil water advisory applies to:
Drinking and preparing beverages
Preparing bottles and baby food
Washing and preparing food
Making ice cubes
Brushing teeth and rinsing
Drinking water for pets.
You can use the water directly to:
Prepare food and dishes that require prolonged boiling to cook
Wash dishes in hot water with detergent, making sure they are dry
Run your dishwasher on the hottest cycle
Wash clothes and take a shower or bath. Ensure young children do not swallow water while bathing
For updates on when the Wakefield spring will reopen, you can visit villelapeche.qc.ca/en/diffusions/nouvelles/