A precautionary advice for drinking water (water boil alert) was issued today for the Tiwi Islands Communities following the high winds and rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Carlos.
The Department of Health today confirmed that precautionary measures were being taken to ensure that the water supply was safe to drink again as quickly as possible.
DoH Environmental Health Senior Policy Officer, Karen Beirne, said in the meantime as a precautionary measure, it is recommended that water for drinking, food preparation and oral hygiene be obtained from either packaged bottled water or by boiling tap water for three minutes and allowing to cool prior to use.
Residents who experience diarrhoea symptoms should seek advice from the health centre or other health service.
Anyone who has concerns can contact DoH Environmental Health hotline during business hours on toll free 1800 095 646 or mobile 0438 856 087.
Media enquiries: Robin Osborne 0488 692 781
Release date: 16 February 2011
