Drinking Water Nitrate Advisory Remains In Effect
Due to elevated nitrate levels in the Scioto River, a nitrate advisory for the Dublin Road Water Plant service area continues. The Columbus Division of Water issued this advisory to certain populations receiving water from this portion of Franklin County on June 8, when levels went over the 10 parts per million (ppm) maximum contaminant level set by the Ohio EPA. Today's level at the Dublin Road Water Plant is 10.7 ppm. Do not give tap water to infants below the age of six months or use it to make infant formula, juice or baby cereal. The affected area includes portions of west, central, and southwest Columbus, Grandview Heights, Grove City, Hilliard, Lincoln Village, Marble Cliff, Upper Arlington, Urbancrest, and Valleyview (see enclosed map).
Nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern for infants less than six months old. Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate in excess of the maximum contaminant level could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.
DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level, and in fact may increase it.
Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water. However, the advisory was extended to pregnant women to also use bottled water as a precaution. Customers who are pregnant, nursing or have other health concerns should consult their doctor. This advisory will continue until further notice, and the Division of Water will continue to monitor the levels and notify the public when the advisory can be lifted.
WATER SUPPLIED TO THE REST OF THE COLUMBUS WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM DOES NOT CONTAIN ELEVATED NITRATE LEVELS.
A Frequently Asked Questions fact sheet on nitrates is available here.
The affected area is highlighted below; for an interactive map, please visit http://arcg.is/1HQZDe1
