Mark A.R. Cooper, Director of Health for the Aspetuck Health District, warned residents with on-site private wells that might have been flooded due to Sunday’s exceptionally high rainfall to evaluate their well water before using.

With the amount of rain recently received, wells that are located in pits or low-lying areas subject to flooding, should be properly disinfected, and tested prior to consumption or use. Wells that are not tightly capped, sediment and flood water could enter the well and contaminate it.

Mr. Cooper said, “If your well has been flooded, it needs to be disinfected and tested once the floodwaters recede.”

Drinking and/or using contaminated water may cause illness. You should not assume that the water from a flooded well is safe to drink. If there is any discoloration and/or odor coming from water out of a faucet, or flood waters overtopped the well casing, the well should be inspected by a professional to make sure there is no damage to the well casing or electrical wire going to the pump, prior to disinfection.

After disinfection, pump the water until it runs clear to get rid of any groundwater in the well. Use a hose connected to an outside faucet so the flushed water flows to a nearby drainageway rather than into your septic system or public sewer.

More information about the flooding of private wells and clean-up can be found here.