PUBLIC NOTICE: Chlorine Burn

Parish Utilities of Ascension to Conduct Chlorine Burn of its Water Distribution System Parish Utilities of Ascension, serving public water systems in West Ascension, will be conducting a free chlorine burn of its water distribution system beginning Monday, May 8, 2017 and will last 30 days. It will affect the water system in the City of Donaldsonville, and the rural water systems served by ACUD #1.

Free chlorine burns are routine maintenance and are designed to maintain clean water and minimize the potential for the occurrence of harmful bacteria in the water system. There are no indications of bacteriological contamination in the Parish water distribution system at this time.

During this free chlorine burn, the water disinfection process will be changed from chloramines to free chlorine which is a stronger and faster-acting disinfectant. Customers may notice open fire hydrants throughout the parish during this period to allow flushing of the system, which helps to remove sediment from the pipes and distribute the change in disinfectant. At the end of the free burn, the standard chemicals used for disinfections will be reintroduced to the system and be returned to normal operating conditions.

Possible Noticeable Effects: It is important to understand that during this temporary change there may be some discoloration or cloudiness in the water and possibly a chlorine odor or taste. If this is experienced, please run the water through the tap until it clears. Minor pressure fluctuations and small air pockets may also occur. Fire hydrant flushing should remove a majority of the color and odor, but some may reach customer lines during the process.

Is the Water Safe to Drink? Yes, the water is safe to drink throughout this process. Any odor and color issues will subside as the flushing is completed. Discoloration in laundry is possible, and cleaning additives are available at local stores to help prevent or remove any discoloration that may occur. Customers who use tap water for kidney dialysis at home should contact their doctor to advise them if any changes are necessary in their residual disinfectant neutralization procedures. Customers utilizing the water for aquariums should monitor the chlorine residuals.

During normal business hours residents may contact Wendy Emmel at 225-473-7603, ext. 1708, or by email at wemmel@parishutilitiesofascension.com, or Carl Ladmirault at 225-450-1072, cladmirault@apgov.us. Ascension Parish appreciates the patience and understanding of its residents as it works to further improved the quality of the water for all customers.

Contributed Report