Fecal Water Quality -
Fecal Water Quality
Due to potentially elevated levels of fecal bacteria that are likely present in the water at Big Lake, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is advising the public not to engage in any activities that would involve exposure to the water or shoreline of Big Lake.
- At these suspected levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water from Big Lake. As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact. AHS also recommends that residents do not consume fish from the lake and refrain from using lake water for consumption, even if it’s been treated.
- We advise that people keep pets from coming into contact with the lake’s water at the site of the spill.
- As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any lake or reservoir, at any time. Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
AHS Public Health Inspectors will continue to monitor the situation. Updates will be provided as more is known.
- Due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria currently present in the water, AHS is advising the public not to swim or wade at this beach area, effective immediately.
- Elevated levels of fecal bacteria were detected via testing of the lake water at this beach location.
- At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water. As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear, and eye infections with water contact.
- As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any lake or reservoir, at any time. Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- AHS Environmental Public Health officers will continue to monitor the water
