LOCAL ADVISORY

For Residents of North Preston

(Friday, May 7, 2004) - There has been a sewage release from a municipal pumping station on Johnson Road in North Preston. The release occurred early this morning, and was contained once municipal staff became aware of the situation.

Staff have investigated conditions at the site, and there is no evidence that the release reached Long Lake, which is about 400 meters distant from the pumping station.

Provincial and municipal staff have been at the site through the day. Lake samples have been taken as a precautionary measure, and this will continue into next week.

The Halifax Regional Water Commission, as an added precautionary measure, have increased chlorine residuals at the water treatment plant in North Preston. The Water Commission advises that the tap water is safe for public consumption.

The Municipality and the Water Commission have been in close communication through the day with the provincial Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Strang, and also with officials from the provincial Department of Environment and Labour.

Any resident who has questions related to public health issues should contact the Medical Officer of Health at 481-5800, or the Provincial Environment and Labour may be contacted at 424-7773. Questions with respect to the water treatment plant should be directed to the Halifax Regional Water Commission at 441-1107.Questions with respect to the release itself should be directed to the Halifax Regional Municipality at 490-6958.

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John Sheppard, P.Eng.
Manager, Environmental Services
Halifax Regional Municipality