Water warning in Oakley, high level of nitrates

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The City of Oakley has issued a water warning. Residents are told not to give city water to infants under six months old and not to boil the water.

The warning notice says a water sample from Well Six ten days ago showed a nitrate level of 11 milligrams per liter. The well was not being used at the time. However, the City issued a warning notice because the nitrate level exceeded the federal standard of 10 milligrams per liter.

Do not give water to infants

Nitrate in drinking water is a serious health concern for infants under six months old. Infants that drink high-nitrate water could become seriously ill and, if untreated, could die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blueness of skin. Symptoms can develop quickly. Seek medical attention immediately because the infant’s health can deteriorate over a period of days.

Formula and juice for infants under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Until further notice, use bottled water or other water that is low in nitrates.

Do not boil the water

The City says boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level. The longer the water boils, the more concentrated the nitrates can become.

What about other residents?

The City says anyone older than six months can drink the tap water. However, pregnant women or those with specific health concerns may want to consult a doctor first.

What is being done to fix the problem?

Oakley says nitrates in water can come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources, including septic systems and runoff. The nitrate level can vary throughout the year.

The City will provide bottled water for infants under six months, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and those with a doctor’s note advising that it is necessary.

Oakley will notify residents when the nitrate level is safe. Check the City’s Facebook page . Even after the nitrate level is declared safe, the City will continue to provide bottled water for two weeks.

The City says it only uses the wells responsible for the high nitrate level when necessary. It is in the design phase for building a water treatment plant.

For more information, contact Brock Sloan at 785-671-3136 or by mail at 415 W. 2nd Street, PO Box 287, Oakley, KS 67748.

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