Alamosa Rep. Reports on Safety of Water Supply

Rep. Gallegos commends cooperation between local and state government

(Denver)  State Representative Rafael Gallegos (D-Antonito) issued the following update in regards to the contamination of the Alamosa municipal water supply with salmonella:

The cooperation between local and state government has been outstanding.  The Red Cross and the many organizations and businesses who have donated their time and effort have alleviated further problems the citizens are encountering.

This situation in Alamosa has taken a huge economic toll on our business causing several restaurants to close. Schools at all levels have had to shut their doors, including Trinidad State College Valley campus and Adams State College.

To date, there are 251”suspected” cases, 73 of which are “confirmed” to be salmonella.  Ten people have been hospitalized, but most have been released.
 
According to the State of Emergency Operations Center there are three stages in flushing the water system which began at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday morning.
 
STAGE 1 begins with the introduction of a high concentration of chlorine (approximately 25 ppm) into the water system.  During this stage, water is not to be used for anything other than flushing toilets.
 
STAGE 2 will occur in the concentration of chlorine decreases to approximately 10 ppm.  There will be limited use of water during this stage for bathing for healthy adults.  This stage is expected to last up to 10 days, but may last longer depending on results of the flush.
 
STAGE 3 will occur when chlorine concentration decreases to approximately 1 – 2 mg per liter, which is a safe drinking level.  Normal drinking, bathing, and other water uses can be resumed at this stage.  Extensive testing will be performed before a “green light” is given to drink the water.
 
The flushing will continue to use super - chlorinate.

Situation reports may be found on the Division of Emergency Management website at http://dola.colorado.gov.dem/

-- Posted by staff