File photo (Image credit: Vernon Matters).
Restrict Water Use

Users of Cedar Heights Water System in Blind Bay asked to restrict water use following equipment malfunction

Aug 20, 2024 | 7:20 AM

UPDATE (9:00 a.m.): A boil water notice has been placed for residents on the Cedar Heights Water System until further notice.

The CSRD says an equipment malfunction may have impaired the effectiveness of the water disinfection treatment system.

“If disinfection is impaired, disease-causing micro-organisms may escape into the water distribution system, resulting in an increased risk of intestinal illness,” the CSRD states.

In an earlier update at 8:25 a.m., the CSRD states water levels for the Cedar Heights system reached critical levels. The regional district says some areas of Cedar Heights are already without water service and others parts of the system may soon be affected.

EARLIER: BLIND BAY, B.C. — Users of the Cedar Heights Water System in the Blind Bay area are being asked to stop all non-essential water use until further notice.

In a news release issued Monday (Aug. 19) afternoon, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) says an equipment malfunction at the Cedar Heights water system is limiting its ability to pump and store water.

Residents on the water system are being asked to restrict their water use for essential purposes only so there’s enough water in the system in the event of a fire. The CSRD says that includes not running washing machines, dishwashers, irrigation systems or lawn sprinklers. Residents are also asked to restrict their water use for showers or baths and to not let faucets run while brushing their teeth or washing.

Image credit: CSRD

The CSRD says there’s no estimated time on repairs, and it will post more information when it becomes available.

For more information, residents on the Cedar Heights water system can contact the CSRD Utilities Department at 1-888-248-2773 or Interior Health at 250-851-7340.