Public Health Ontario urges drinking water testing
ONTARIO – Public Health Ontario is urging the province’s three million residents relying on private water sources – including wells, cisterns and treated lake water – to test drinking water regularly for bacterial contamination.
Unlike municipal systems, private water supplies are not routinely monitored and can contain harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, even when the water appears clear and tastes normal.
Contaminated water can cause gastrointestinal illness, fever and, in rare cases, more serious health complications.
Free testing for bacterial contamination is available to Ontario residents.
Public Health Ontario recommends regular testing, particularly after spring thaw, heavy rainfall, flooding or well maintenance.
Test results can be accessed through the agency’s Online Water Testing Portal, allowing residents to submit sample information electronically and receive online results within two to four business days.
Residents seeking information about mineral or chemical content must use a licensed laboratory.
Information on testing, sample kit pickup locations and accessing results is available through Public Health Ontario and the provincial government.
