DHSS Press Release |
Date: October 24, 2005 DHSS-106-2005 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MILLSBORO & DAGSBORO RESIDENTS ADVISED TO STOP DRINKING PUBLIC WATER
Levels of Trichloroethylene are Above Standards
Millsboro and Dagsboro residents served by the public water system should temporarily avoid using their tap water for drinking, due to the presence of trichloroethylene detected by Division of Public Health's Office of Drinking Water (ODW). A random sample of water taken Oct. 19 from the Boys and Girls Club of Dagsboro tested above standard levels for trichloroethylene, a clear liquid that evaporates quickly, and is frequently used as a degreaser in industrial operations.
Dagsboro began connecting to the Millsboro public water system in July, with 66 Dagsboro connections complete. Anyone already connected to the Dagsboro/Millsboro system is impacted by this advisory. The Boys and Girls Club of Dagsboro has been connected to the public water system for nearly one month. All other Dagsboro consumers remain on private wells and are unaffected.
Notices are being distributed to households connected to this water system, advising them to:
- Use an alternative drinking water supply, such as bottled water.
- Reduce length of time spent bathing and showering.
Trichloroethylene mainly affects the central nervous system. Symptoms could include headache, vertigo, fatigue, and short-term memory loss. Theses symptoms are reversible once exposure to trichloroethylene ceases. TCE exposure may also cause damage to the liver or kidneys, and is considered a probable human carcinogen.
When introduced to a water supply trichloroethylene evaporates very quickly. This evaporation can be further enhanced using aeration and filtration techniques. The Dagsboro water system anticipates resolving the problem within two weeks. Consumers will be informed when it is safe to resume use of public water.
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
