BARRHEAD-Following a power disruption at the Whitecourt Water Treatment Plant on the evening of March 12, residents of Whitecourt and Woodlands County who rely on the town’s water system are being asked to restrict water usage to basic needs only.
A state of local emergency was declared by the Town of Whitecourt at 7:20 p.m. on March 13. It remains in effect as of 4 p.m. on March 14.
A release from the Town of Whitecourt states that crews are working at getting the water plant operational, but until then, water is being hauled in from nearby municipalities.
In order to maintain water levels, Whitecourt and Woodlands County residents who access that system are being asked to restrict water usage by limiting showers and baths, delaying laundry-washing, only using a dishwasher if absolutely necessary, turning off taps when brushing teeth, limiting toilet flushing and not washing their vehicle(s).
“I’m asking that the community pull together at this time,” said Whitecourt mayor Maryann Chichak, in a release. “Every effort, and every litre of water conserved, will help maintain our supply until the Water Treatment Plant is back online and producing water."
Chichak added that she wished to thank the Whitecourt crews and contractors that have been working around the clock to assist with this situation, as well as the neighbouring communities “that have been so accommodating during this time,” particularly the communities of Mayerthorpe, Edson and Peers.
According to the latest release from the Town of Whitecourt, there will be another update posted to the municipality’s Facebook page on the evening of March 14.
