November 13, 2009
The City of Asheboro has had Levels of Chlorine Above Drinking Water Standards

Our water system recently violated a drinking water standard. Although this is not an emergency, as our customers you have a right to know what happened, what you should do and what we are doing to correct this situation.

We routinely monitor for the presence of drinking water contaminants. The latest test results we received on 11-11-09 show that our system exceeds the standard or maximum residual disinfectant level (MRDL) for Chlorine. The standard for Chlorine is 4 milligrams per liter (mg/L). Chlorine was found at 7.5 mg/L.

What should I do?
You do not need to use an alternative (e.g. bottled) water supply. However, if you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor.

What does this mean?
This is not an immediate risk. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. However, some people who use water containing chlorine well in excess of the MRDL could experience irritating effects to their eyes and nose. Some people who drink water containing chlorine well in excess of the MRDL could experience stomach discomfort.

What happened? What is being done?
On 11-11-09 the City of Asheboro Water Plant experienced a problem with the chlorine feed system, resulting in a high concentration of chlorine being released into the system. The problem was corrected and all precautions were taken to ensure safety to our customers, including flushing the system until the levels were within standards.

For more information, please contact:
Bryan Lanier, City of Asheboro, 336-626-1215