For immediate release: August 31, 2008 (08-144)

Contacts:
Eric Thomas, Estates, Inc.Water System 360-460-5282
Jerrod Davis, Office of Drinking Water 360-556-2132
Allison Cook, Communications Office 360-240-3377, pgr.

OLYMPIA ¾ The Estates, Inc. water system in Clallam County is advising its customers to boil their drinking water because lab tests have confirmed the water is contaminated with E. coli.

The water system is working closely with the Department of Health Office of Drinking Water to find the source of contamination and fix the problem.

The advisory affects about 350 homes near the corner of Woodcock Road and Kitchen-Dick Road between Sequim and Port Angeles. There have been no illnesses reported that are related to the system’s drinking water.

"We’re doing everything possible to find the cause of the bacteria in the water and eliminate it," said Eric Thomas, owner and operator of the system. "Ensuring safe drinking water is critical to the health of our customers, and we’re responding to this situation on a priority basis."

The state Department of Health advises customers to use purchased bottled water or boil water that will be used for drinking, brushing teeth, making ice, or preparing food. Tap water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute and then cooled before using.

The advisory will remain in effect until Estates, Inc. and the Department of Health are confident the water is safe to drink. Customers will be notified when the advisory ends.

For additional information call Estates, Inc. at 360-460-5282.

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