SIMCOE MUSKOKA — The Victoria Day long weekend marks the unofficial start of summer and the return to cottages for many Ontarians. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents and seasonal property owners who use private water systems to test their drinking water as part of their spring routine.
SIMCOE MUSKOKA — The Victoria Day long weekend marks the unofficial start of summer and the return to cottages for many Ontarians. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents and seasonal property owners who use private water systems to test their drinking water as part of their spring routine.
Water quality in private systems, including wells, cisterns and lake water supplies, can change over time, particularly after the winter months. Weather, water use and environmental conditions can all affect water safety.
“Water that looks, smells or tastes normal can still contain harmful bacteria, such as E. coli,” said Karen Kivilahti, the health unit’s manager, Safe Water. “Contaminated water can make people very sick and in some cases can be life-threatening. Regular testing is the only way to know if your water is safe.”
Free drinking water testing is available through the health unit, with sample bottles and drop-off locations across Simcoe Muskoka. Residents can pick up bottles at designated locations Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Samples should be collected just before drop-off and must be tested within 48 hours. It may take 24 hours for the sample to reach the lab.
Each sample requires a separate form. Paper forms are available at the health unit or forms can be completed online through the Public Health Ontario portal. Samples must be submitted between Monday and Thursday before 4:30 p.m. Submissions are not accepted on Fridays. Testing is conducted by Public Health Ontario, with results typically available within a few days. Results can be accessed online or received by phone, mail, email or in person when a paper form is used.
Residents are encouraged to test their drinking water when opening their cottage for the season and to continue testing regularly throughout the summer. “A safe summer begins with safe water,” said Kivilahti. “Regular testing can help protect you, your family and your guests and provide peace of mind all season long.”
For more information about free drinking water testing, visit smdhu.org/WaterTesting or call 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
