JEA Boil Water Advisory - Northwest St Johns County

2019-11-26

Jacksonville, FL - JEA Boil Water Advisory

WHAT:

E. coli bacteria were found in a sample that was collected November 25, 2019 from a well on Ivy Lakes Drive in St. Johns County. Results were available November 26, 2019. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets drinking water standards and has determined that the presence of total coliforms and E. coli are possible health concerns. This pertains to JEA customers west of St Johns Parkway and south of Longleaf Pine Parkway and Cunningham Creek. A boil water advisory has been issued.

FAQs:

Should I use an alternative source of drinking water or boil my water?

Yes. Until JEA lifts the boil water advisory for the affected customers, bring all drinking water to a boil for at least one minute and let it cool before using it for drinking or cooking. You may also use bottled water as an alternative. General guidelines to lessen the risk of infection by bacteria are also available from EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, and people with severely compromised immune systems.

How long do I have to do this?

We understand this is an inconvenience and are working as quickly as possible to get this taken care of. We are required to complete a minimum of 2 days of sampling with no detections. We anticipate you will be able to drink the water again early Thursday morning. Another news release will be sent out at that time.

What was done to address this situation?

Additional confirmation sampling was immediately initiated upon discovery of this potential problem. Chlorine was maintained in the water distribution system throughout this period of time to help ensure bacteria would not be present in your drinking water.

Does my water currently meet total coliform standards?

While the EPA bacteria standard was not achieved at one well, it is important to note that the sample in question was taken before the water was treated with chlorine for disinfection. All other recent water quality tests have been satisfactory in the distribution system.

Why am I receiving this notice?

The EPA requires JEA to issue a public notice any time the bacteria standard is not met. Please share this information with other people in your area who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly.

When does JEA issue this type of notice to customers?

JEA issues a public notice to inform our customers of any potential water quality health concerns as soon as we become aware of a potential problem. Our number one goal is your safety.

Where can I obtain additional information?

Customers may contact JEA's Customer Care Center at (904) 665-6000 or wtrqual@jea.com via email for additional information concerning this notice, or write to JEA - Water Quality, 1002 Main Street North, Jacksonville, Florida 32206. Customers may also contact the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Potable Water Section, at (904) 256-1700.

Category:

• customer
• environment
• water