Health officials determined surface water could have mixed with ground water at 2531 W. Jackson through the well in the basement. The basement flooded while the fire department extinguished a fire at the residence on March 1, the health district letter to residents read.
“We are working with residents who live closest to 2531 West Jackson Road to determine the extent of the possible contamination. Water quality testing is being performed as needed,” the letter said.
The water at the residences has an unusual odor of smoke and recent change in appearance, the letter said.
Bottled water is available to residents of the impacted area at the Hustead Fire and EMS Department, 6215 Springfield-Xenia Road, 45502, between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Health officials asked those residents to call (937) 717-2452 and provide with their name and phone number and to note any change in odor or appearance of their water.
“This will allow us to reach out to you as necessary as our investigation proceeds,” the letter read. “We look forward to addressing your questions or concerns.”
Nate Smith, health district communications coordinator, explained what will happen.
The home that caught fire is expected to be demolished on Thursday, and the affected well is scheduled to be sealed properly by Blessing Well and Pump on Friday. Once the well is sealed, the health district will have residents pump their wells out until no smell is noticed, disinfect the well and then test the water.
“The water can be used to flush toilets and shower with for most people, although young children and others with sensitive skin may want to avoid prolonged contact,” Smith said.
Water from those houses should not be used to drink, brush your teeth, or cook with, he said.
The tests are for potential contaminants known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Semivolatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs), Smith said, and include things such as Plasticizers and fire retardants, for example. Officials also are testing for E. coli and Coliform bacteria.
Results take 7 to 10 days after samples are taken.
The health district also contacted Young’s Jersey Dairy, which is south of the Jackson Road area where the fire happened.
“They were contacted as a public health partner, but we don’t have any reason to believe they’re affected and we did not deliver a flyer like we did with the other properties listed,” Smith said.
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