Municipal Water

Your drinking water is a big part of your daily life. From drinking and cooking to brushing your teeth, you rely on it every day. That’s why it’s important to know your water is safe.

How does Ontario keep your water safe?

Ontario has a system in place to make sure your water is clean and safe. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks does things like:

• Registering all municipal water systems

• Training and licensing people who manage water systems

• Approving repairs and upgrades to water systems

• Testing water regularly to meet strict safety standards

These steps work together to protect the water coming to your home.

What does my local water system do?

Your local water system makes sure the water from your tap is safe. They:

• Test your water often in certified labs

• Train workers to follow Ontario’s safety rules

• Fix problems quickly if something doesn’t meet standards

• Report concerns to our team and the Ministry

If there’s ever an issue, your local team takes action to fix it and keeps you informed.

What should I do during a boil water advisory?

A boil water advisory means your water isn’t safe to drink without boiling. Here’s what to do:

1. Boil water for at least one minute before using it for:

• Drinking

• Cooking or washing fruits and vegetables

• Brushing your teeth

• Making baby formula or ice

2. Use boiled or bottled water until the advisory is lifted.

Next steps:

• Stay updated by checking notices from your municipality or Southwestern Public Health

• Keep a few bottles of water at home in case this happens again

For more details, visit our boil water advisory FAQs.

What if my water doesn’t look or smell right?

If your water looks cloudy, smells bad, or tastes strange, don’t use it. Here’s what to do:

1. Stop using the water right away

2. Call your municipality to report the problem

3. Follow their instructions to stay safe

Your local team will investigate and let you know what’s going on.

What happens if water safety rules aren’t met?

If water doesn’t meet safety standards, steps are taken right away to fix the issue. This could include:

• Issuing a boil water advisory

• Repairing or cleaning the water system

• Providing updates until the water is safe to use again

These actions make sure you and your family are protected.

Which areas are served?

Southwestern Public Health supports water safety in:

• Town of Aylmer

• Bayham: Port Burwell, Straffordville, Vienna, Eden

• Central Elgin: Belmont, Port Stanley, Sparta, New Sarum

• Dutton-Dunwich: Dutton, Wallacetown

• Malahide: Springfield, Port Bruce

• City of St. Thomas

• Southwold: Fingal, Shedden

• West Elgin: Port Glasgow, Rodney, West Lorne

Regional systems include:

• Elgin Area Primary Water Supply System: Serves Elgin County and St. Thomas. Check reports on the Elgin Area Water System

• Oxford County Water: Provides drinking water to municipalities in Oxford County

Where can I get more help?

If you have concerns or questions about your water:

• Contact your local municipality for updates or to report an issue