FAWCETT — Alberta Health Services is warning residents of Fawcett to be cautious with the hamlet’s drinking water.
Due to higher than acceptable concentrations of nitrate, all pregnant women, nursing mothers and infants under six months are being asked to stop drinking tap water immediately.
AHS also says tap water from the system should not be used to make baby formula, baby food or juice.
To ensure safe drinking water is immediately available, Westlock County will deliver bottled water directly to all affected Fawcett residents.
They can pick it up Thursday at the local fire hall.
Water with high levels of nitrate can cause a severe illness called blue baby syndrome if ingested by infants.
Symptoms can develop rapidly and parents are being told that if an infant has bluish skin or lips and is short of breath, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Alberta Health Services says it is working closely with the Fawcett water treatment facility to restore safe water service as efficiently as possible.
This health advisory will remain in effect until nitraite concentration in the water has returned to acceptable levels.