After a wildfire, chemicals, microorganisms, ash, sediments and other contaminants can enter a water system through damaged infrastructure and contaminate water sources. Exposure to contaminated water could have adverse effects to humans and animals, warns Laxmi Prasad, North Dakota State University Extension water engineer. Prasad encourages homeowners, ranchers, and others to conduct a visual inspection of their water system, repair damaged infrastructure, and test water before use. Owners can use the Rapid Assessment Form for Wells After Fires from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to assess risks to drinking water post-wildfire.
Private well and drinking water systems
For private well and drinking systems, Prasad recommends performing a visual inspection of the well and water system, including the piping and connections that supply water throughout the home or the facility. Here is a checklist of components to be inspected:
- Check for electrical wires and connectors that supply power to the well.
- Check well casing, above-ground piping, storage tanks, and overflow piping for damage.
- Check for loss of water pressure.
- Check for damage to water treatment equipment and electronics.
- Check areas near the home for spills and contamination from household fuels, use of fire fighting chemicals and industrial chemicals.
If the water has a different color or odor and smells earthy, smoky or burnt, it may not be safe for consumption, according to Karl Rockeman, director of the Division of Water Quality at the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality. He advises residents to thoroughly flush the well and water system and then test before consumption. Residents should not drink water until tested.
The Department of Environmental Quality (701-328-5210) provides specific testing recommendations for suspected contamination. Before submitting a sample to a water testing laboratory, residents should contact the lab to determine what tests they offer, sampling procedures, the sample size required and the cost of the tests. A list of labs in North Dakota that test drinking water can be found at: ndsu.ag/watertest.
Livestock water
After a wildfire, ponds and streams may be at risk of contamination from sediment, ash, fire retardant, nutrients, and other pollutants. Unburned material and ash floating on water surface may indicate that water quality is impacted. NDSU Extension livestock stewardship specialist Miranda Meehan recommends ranchers test the water before allowing livestock to drink from it.
“Use an alternative water source or haul water until water has been tested,” Meehan says. “Watch for signs that your livestock may have ingested poor-quality water, such as reduced appetite, decreased water intake, or changes in behavior and performance. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe any changes in behavior or performance.”
Wastewater systems
Fire and heat can damage above ground septic water system components such as PVC piping and connections. Inspecting the system is key to detecting issues.
“If you notice any damage or malfunctioning, immediately stop using your wastewater system, and contact your city or county health department for guidance on repairing it,” Prasad says.
Electrical safety
Prasad also cautions owners to be aware of the risk for damage to electrical components and the wellhead. It can be dangerous to turn on the pump and water system if components have been damaged. In the case of power outages, a generator can be used to run the well. A licensed well contractor and electrician can determine correct capacity generator to suit the pump. Using an inappropriate generator could damage the pumping system. Practicing generator safety can help prevent electrical shock or damage to pumping system.
Source: Laxmi Prasad, 701-231-4190, laxmi.prasad@ndsu.edu
Source: Miranda Meehan, 701-231-7683, miranda.meehan@ndsu.edu
Source: Karl Rockeman, 701-328-5225, krockema@nd.gov
Editor: Elizabeth Cronin, 701-231-7006, elizabeth.cronin@ndsu.edu