Water advisory lifted following diesel spill in St. Clair River

Lambton Public Health has lifted a do not use water advisory issued in Corunna after a spill of diesel fuel into the St. Clair River over the weekend. The advisory was in place for for private drinking water system users near Hill and Lyndoch streets in Corunna. “Lambton Public Health received confirmation from the Ministry […]

Lambton Public Health has lifted a do not use water advisory issued in Corunna after a spill of diesel fuel into the St. Clair River over the weekend.

The advisory was in place for for private drinking water system users near Hill and Lyndoch streets in Corunna.

“Lambton Public Health received confirmation from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) that there are no longer impacts to private drinking water systems or recreational water use based on the incident,” LPH said in a news release, Friday. 

Meanwhile, St. Clair Township residents and officials say they want more answers after learning of the spill hours after it happened.

The health unit says nearby residents with private drinking water systems continue to be notified directly, with the following steps provided to them:

Steps for Private Drinking Water Systems after a Do Not Use Water Advisory has been lifted:

• Flush cold water taps for at least one (1) minute before using.
• Run drinking water fountains for one (1) minute.
• Flush all garden hoses by running water for one (1) minute.
• Drain and refill hot water tanks.
• Replace water filters used to filter untreated water.

“This advisory update also informs recreational water users in the surrounding area that the all-clear for swimming and recreational water use should include an individual assessment of current weather and water conditions, to identify possible health risks before accessing the water,” LPH added. 

While there are no designated public beaches monitored along the St. Clair River; a caution sign, advising of high bacteria levels following heavy rainfall, has been permanently placed at Branton Cundick Park, Brander Park and Seager Park.

For more information about health risks associated with the water advisory contact Lambton Public Health by calling 519-383-8331 or 1-800-667-1839.