Town of Centreville
Tests show presence of coliform bacteria in water
We routinely monitor for the presence of drinking water contaminants.
Two drinking water samples collected during September 2010 showed the presence of Total Coliform bacteria. No more than one of the sample collected in a single month can show the presence of Total Coliform Bacteria.
What This Means
This is not an emergency. Total coliform bacteria are generally not harmful themselves.
Coliforms are bacteria, which are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, bacteria may be present. Coliforms were found in more samples than allowed and this was a warning of potential problems. Usually, coliforms are a sign that there could be a problem with the system’s treatment or distribution systems.
You may drink the water. However, if you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.
People with severely compromised immune systems, infants, and some elderly may be at increased risk. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers.
Steps We Are Taking
The Town of Centreville checked the distribution system and tested the raw water source. All of the raw water sources were absent of coliform bacteria. The distribution system chlorine levels were adjusted and additional coliform monitoring will occur in October. In addition, the Town also performed additional flushing in the system at the sample points.
For more information, please contact Mr. Greg Swartz, Director of Public Works, Town of Centreville 410-758-1180 or 101 Lawyers Row, Centreville, Maryland 21617, or Mr. Jay Janney, Maryland Environmental Service at 410-729-8350.
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
State Water System ID# 017-001. Date distributed: 09-28-2010