Free drinking water safety test kits available

Delaware's Division of Public Health has free drinking water safety test kits available for victims of flooding from Hurricane Sandy.

Health experts warn residents to make sure water is safe before drinking and bathing after a flood. Those at highest risk get their water from a well; fifteen percent of Delawareans are on a private well.

DPH offers test kits during business hours, Monday through Friday at: University Plaza, Chopin Building, 258 Chapman Road, Newark; Thomas Collins Building, 540 S. DuPont Highway, Dover; Delaware Public Laboratory, 30 Sunnyside Road, Smyrna; Adams State Service Center, 544 S. Bedford St., Georgetown.

Water samples must be dropped off at the location where you picked up the kit. If the water is found to be contaminated, DPH's goal is to contact you within 72 hours with information on cleaning up your well.

While you are waiting for your test results, DPH recommends boiling your drinking water by heating it to the highest possible temperature so that it bubbles constantly. Boil for one minute, and then let it cool. Store the boiled water in clean, covered containers. Residents can also disinfect water using household bleach. Add 1/8 teaspoon (or 8 drops) of regular, unscented, liquid household bleach for each gallon of water. Stir it well and let it stand for 30 minutes before using it. Bottled water is another safe alternative.

DPH staff can provide information on mold, drinking water and food safety at 302-744-4546. For other questions, please call the Delaware Helpline at 800-464-4357.

For fact sheets on flood preparedness and recovery, visit the DPH website at:www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/floodhealthinfo.html.