The Township of Chapleau's under a water advisory after problems at the water treatment plant.
A statement from the Township explains the distribution system lost pressure because of equipment failure at the plant last night, and - even though pressure's been restored - a drinking water advisory's in effect until further notice.
Public Health Sudbury and Districts warns residents should not use the water for human consumption - such as drinking, making juice, infant formula, or ice, cooking, washing uncooked fruits and vegetables, or brushing teeth - further warning boiling the water still may not make it safe for drinking - instead, it advises an alternate source like bottled water should be used, though it should still be boiled for making infant formula.
The health unit does note the water can still be used for laundry or bathing, though not for bathing small children who could swallow the water.
Health Protection Division Manager Burgess Hawkins explains the advisory, noting "the loss of water pressure created conditions that compromised the safety of the drinking water", and "until bacteriological testing of the drinking water indicates a safe supply, the drinking water advisory will remain in effect as a precaution".
Those seeking more information about the advisory are referred to the health unit.