Lac La Biche County to Adjust Water Treatment in Spring 2024 Potable water distribution system will soon be disinfected with chloramines instead of free chlorine Lac La Biche County’s potable water system is currently disinfected by free chlorine, ensuring clean drinking water for all residents. Starting this spring 2024, as part of a larger Water Treatment Plant Improvement Project, the County will switch from disinfecting potable water with free chlorine to chloramine (a substance that combines chlorine and ammonia). Chloramine is a more stable disinfectant that will allow the County to transport potable water safely across greater distances throughout our distribution system. Chloramine is a tried-and-true substance used to successfully sanitize water throughout North America, including Albertan communities like Edmonton, Lethbridge, Red Deer, and the City of Brooks. Alberta Environment and Protected Areas has approved the use of chloramines in other municipalities within the province of Alberta. With the change from free chlorine to chloramines, it is important for consumers to note the following: • Water treated with chloramines is safe for drinking, washing, bathing, and other household uses. • Chloramines must be removed from water before use in kidney dialysis machines. Local health authorities are already aware of this change and will take necessary steps to ensure the continued safety of all patients. Contact Alberta Health Services for more information. • Aquarium owners should install a filter to remove chloramine from tank water, due to potential toxicity to some species of fish. A typical granular-activated carbon filter, available at pet stores, will remove chlo-ramine from tank water. Public health and safety is Lac La Biche County’s top priority. We have retained experts in the water treatment field to ensure all Provincial standards are met or exceeded. Lac La Biche County will continue to adhere to the strict monitoring and sampling requirements of Alberta Environment and Protected Areas to ensure the safety of our potable water supply for all consumers. Inquiries may be directed to: Jon Skjersven Manager of Utilities, Lac La Biche County Phone: 780-623-6812 E-mail: [email protected]
