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Veolia Water has advised its customers in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, not to use discolored water for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, or food preparation. This warning marks a shift from the company's previous assurances that the water was safe to use despite its appearance. The notice, issued over the past weekend, coincided with hydrant flushing activities in the area, which Veolia has blamed for the discoloration issues experienced since the summer.
While the company has yet to provide a detailed explanation for the change in guidance, it recommended that customers limit water use during hydrant flushing and flush their taps until the water runs clear before consumption. Veolia has also been holding open houses for affected customers and offering credits as compensation for the inconvenience.
The ongoing water discoloration has led some residents to seek their own testing solutions. However, experts like Andy Yencha from Penn State Extension have cautioned against relying on over-the-counter water testing kits due to potential inaccuracies. Yencha suggested that those concerned should have their water tested at an accredited laboratory, such as the Department of Environmental Protection's Southcentral office in Harrisburg, which offers testing services for a nominal fee.
Despite the concerns, Veolia's water quality report, submitted to the Department of Environmental Protection, indicated that all samples tested negative for bacteria. Yencha noted that sediment in the water does not necessarily pose a health risk, but acknowledged the public's frustration and skepticism given the duration of the issue.