IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
Water Quality Notice: Ebensburg Municipal Authority
The Ebensburg Municipal Authority has issued a notice regarding an exceedance of state drinking water standards. The system recently violated the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Haloacetic Acids (HAA5).
Key Details
- Contaminant: Haloacetic Acids (HAA5)
- Standard Limit: 0. 060 mg/L
- Detected Level: 0. 076 mg/L
- Testing Date: January 19, 2023
- Notice Distribution Date: February 10, 2023
What Happened?
The exceedance is based on a one-year running average of the last four quarters. While the system samples at two locations, only one location exceeded the standard. This specific location is 3920 Admiral Peary Highway, which receives water from the Saltlick water system.
The elevated levels are attributed to low flows in the distribution system, which allow for an extended amount of time for water to enter Ebensburg’s system. This delay contributes to the formation of disinfection byproducts like Haloacetic Acids.
What Should Residents Do?
- No Action Required: There is no need to boil water or use an alternative supply (e. g. , bottled water).
- Health Consultation: While this is not an immediate emergency, individuals with severely compromised immune systems, infants, pregnant women, or the elderly may be at increased risk. These groups are advised to consult their healthcare providers.
Health Risks
This is not an immediate risk; if it were, residents would have been notified immediately. However, long-term consumption of water containing haloacetic acids in excess of the MCL may increase the risk of getting cancer.
Resolution
The Ebensburg Municipal Authority and the Saltlick water system are working with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) to determine an appropriate solution. The authority anticipates resolving the problem in the near future, with a timeline for completion currently being established.
Contact Information: For more information, contact the Ebensburg Municipal Authority at 814-472-8780.