The Regional District of Central Kootenay has issued a water quality advisory for users of the Woodland Heights water system in Taghum.
According to a news release, a recent sample indicated the presence of total coliforms. Further testing is in progress, and the RDCK promises an update once it has been completed.
While health risks are considered low, the RDCK and Interior Health recommend that children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and anyone seeking additional protection use boiled water or another alternative until further notice.
The regional district said it plans to take additional measures to reduce risk including temporarily adding "consumption levels" of chlorine and flushing the system.
The Woodland Heights water system, which draws from a well, was originally built in 1979 to serve 16 lots and subsequently expanded to serve another 12 lots. It has 20 active connections.
The regional district assumed management of the system in 2011.