DRINKING WATER NOTICE

WARNING
Delaware Army National Guard in Seaford FMS #4 water has high levels of nitrate

DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS UNDER 6 MONTHS OLD
OR USE IT TO MAKE INFANT FORMULA

A water sample result received November 24, 2009 showed nitrate levels of 23.4 mg/L. This is above the nitrate standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), of 10mg/L. Nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern for infants less than six months old.

What should I do?

• DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome. Blue baby syndrome is indicated by blueness of the skin. Symptoms in infants can develop rapidly, with health deteriorating over a period of days. If symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
• Water, juice and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water or other water low in nitrates should be used for infants until further notice.
• DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level. Excessive boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.
• Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they can’t process nitrates in the same way adults can). However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your doctor.

What happened? What is being done?

Nitrate in drinking water can come from natural, industrial or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off). Levels of nitrate in drinking water can vary throughout the year. We’ll let you know when the amount of nitrate is again below the limit. We are investigating the best way to come it compliance with the nitrate standard. It may take about 3 months.

For more information, please contact Denise Matthews at (302) 326-7101 or Anita Beckel, Environmental Heath Specialist III with the Office of Drinking Water at (302) 741-8589.

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly.

This notice is being sent to you by Delaware Army National Guard Seaford

Public Water System ID#: N/A

Date Distributed: 11/25/09