Water advisory issued for northern Alberta community

A drinking water advisory has been issued. (File)

The County of Grande Prairie has issued a water advisory for the hamlet of Teepee Creek due to high levels of manganese caused by a failure of the water filtration system.

Work to clean water tanks is to start at 8 a.m. Tuesday during a planned power outage.

The power outage is expected to last until noon. The water outage is expected to last from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.

When water service is restored, residents are required to flush all water lines in their homes for at least 20 minutes before using the water for drinking or cooking. After flushing the lines, the water will be potable and safe to drink and cook with.

Until then, tap water is not safe for cooking or drinking and cannot be boiled, said the advisory, adding that the water can still be used for bathing and washing.

Infants under five and pregnant women should use bottled water for drinking and preparing baby formula, food, hot and cold beverages and ice cubes.

Adults and older children are at a lower risk but should still take precautions.

The county is currently working to secure potable water for the community while repairs to the water filtration system are being completed. Residents will be notified when water becomes available and when the community’s drinking water is restored.

Health Canada says exposure to high levels of manganese in drinking water can cause neurological and behavioural effects, deficits in memory, attention and motor skills.

Teepee Creek is about 375 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.