The Town of Oliver has issued a BOIL WATER NOTICE for Domestic Water Customers served in Rural Water System # 4, 5, 6 & 7.  In order to determine exactly which system you are being served by, please refer to the first three digits of the account number shown on your rural water bill.  If you reside IN TOWN, this does not affect you unless you are directly notified.  Recent testing shows that current water quality is POOR due to a High Total Coliform count in one of our most recent water samples. 

 The Town of Oliver and Interior Health recommend that all customers drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. Water intended for drinking, washing ready to eat fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device. 

 Health risks can increase as Total Coliforms rise, particularly for at-risk populations such as newborns, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. 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. Current Total Coliform counts of more than <1 CFU/100mL, exceeds the standard recommendation in the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.

 Owners of all public facilities in these systems ,must post Boil Water Notices at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Boil Water Notice.

 The Town of Oliver is taking additional measures to reduce risk. Interior Health has been fully involved, and the public will be notified when conditions change or water quality has improved.

 We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause, and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. If you have any questions, please contact the Oliver Public Works Office at 250-485-6213.