September 27, 2024 Health Department recommends private water well owners disinfect drinking water following Hurricane Francine

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Sep 27, 2024 - The Louisiana Department of Health recommends that private water well owners whose wells flooded or experienced power loss should assume their well water is contaminated until screened. Owners must first disinfect affected water wells, then thoroughly flush before a sample of water is collected for analysis by the laboratory.
 
Until the water is confirmed to be negative for coliform bacteria, it should not be used for potable purposes. Before receiving results from the laboratory, use bottled water or some other safe supply of water.
 
The Department is offering free bacteriological testing (total coliforms and E. coli) to private drinking water well owners. There are a limited number of kits available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sampling supplies and instructions on disinfecting, flushing and how to collect the sample are currently available for direct shipping to residential addresses in affected areas.
 
For more information on private well water testing, click here.
 
For more information or guidance on testing, call 1-888-293-7020.