Communities close to Saskatoon have been receiving water testing kits on their front doorstep.
But these tests are raising red flags for the Water Security Agency (WSA), says strategic issues and communications manager, Ron Podbielski.
“The instructions for testing a water sample for bacterial contamination are incorrect and the bottle does not appear to be sterilized,” says Podbielski. “We would be concerned that residents are being encouraged or pressured to buy water purification systems as a result of receiving whatever sample they might get back from this organization.”
These kits are from private companies, says Podbielski, and their motivation is to sell people products or services. WSA want people to be aware of what they could be getting into, he says.
Consumers are free to make whatever decisions they feel are necessary in terms of their water system but it is important to remember that WSA works with all municipalities to ensure residents have safe drinking water up to national standards.
“There should be no concern. If people are feeling in some way that their water is compromised, WSA ensures with the municipalities that their drinking water is safe,” says Podbielski.
Saskatchewan residents can see WSA test results at any time by visiting, http://www.saskh2o.ca/MyDrinkingWater.asp.
