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FORT CHIPEWYAN—A boil water advisory is now in effect for residents of Fort Chipewyan who receive water from the municipal treatment plant, as low lake levels and strong winds have disrupted water quality. The advisory does not apply to Allison Bay or Dog Head residents who receive water from the Mikisew Cree First Nation plant.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo says everyone using the municipal water system must bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before drinking, brushing teeth, preparing food, or giving water to pets. Alberta Health Services has issued safety instructions for storing and using boiled water.
Officials say the water treatment plant is unable to process enough water because of sediment stirred up from Lake Athabasca’s low water levels. The municipality is adding extra chlorine to manage water quality, which may cause a stronger smell, but boiled water remains safe to drink.
A water conservation advisory also remains in effect. Residents are being asked to reduce water use by turning off bleeders and avoiding showers, laundry, or dishwashing until 5 p.m. today. Bottled water is available at Mamawi Hall and the municipal contact office, with additional supplies arriving by charter flight.
The municipality says emergency plans are active in partnership with the community’s three Nations, and crews are working around the clock to restore normal operations. The advisories will remain in effect until further notice, with updates posted at rmwb.ca/waterupdate.
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