What are coliform bacteria?

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Coliform bacteria are a class of rod-shaped bacteria that can utilize lactose (milk, sugar) as a sole source of food.  Coliform bacteria are found essentially everywhere, in soil, lakes, streams and rivers.  Generally, coliform bacteria do not cause disease.  The presence of coliform bacteria is used as an indication that other disease causing organisms may be present in drinking water.

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What are fecal coliforms?

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Fecal coliforms are coliform bacteria that will grow at 44* C (106*F).  These bacteria are also commonly found in animal and human waste.  We use the presence of fecal coliforms as a possible indication of human or animal waste contamination in drinking water.  Generally, these bacteria do not cause disease.  However, their presence indicates a possible waste contamination problem.  E. Coli is a fecal coliform bacteria. 

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Why do I have to boil my water?

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A "Boil Water Order" is issued as a preventative measure.  We issue a boil order if there is a possibility of contamination in the drinking water system.  Contamination may be due to equipment failure, leaking pipes in the system, or insufficient disinfectant in the water supply.

What should I do?

You should boil, for at least five minutes, any water you are going to consume for drinking, washing vegetables, brushing teeth or making ice.

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What about cooking and washing?

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If you are going to boil the water while cooking, prior boiling is not necessary.  It is not necessary to boil water for washing clothes, dishes or bathing. The Lincoln Water District has information available for eating establishments during and after a boil order. This information can also be found at http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/eng/water/rules_policies/TCR/tcr-faq.htm.

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What should I do if the water is making me sick?

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If you believe your water is making you sick, you need to see your physician right away.  Your doctor has the knowledge, expertise and ability to run lab tests to see if the water is what is making you sick.  Symptoms associated with waterborne illness are also associated with food borne illness, or even the common cold.  If your physician determines that your drinking water is making you sick, your case should be referred to the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention.

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Additional questions?  Please contact the Maine Drinking Water Program at (207) 287-2070.

 

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*The above information is furnished by the State of Maine Drinking Water Program.