Many rural properties that have faced flooding over the past week will have many issues to deal with once the water recedes.
That includes water wells. Most wells that are inundated with flood water will need to be cleaned to make sure they are free of coliform bacteria or other contaminants that can leech into the well, especially on farmsteads where there is animal waste from livestock.
There are a number of steps that must be taken to disinfect a well. According to the Reno County Health Department, the well cover must be removed. The well will have to be flushed out with bleach and then run through the entire system of your house.
The water and bleach must sit for a period of time and then run through the system until the bleach is removed, then shut down for up to 24 hours before it is safe to use.
The KDHE recommends that the well be tested again one week after clean up is completed. Until the water is deemed safe, residents should use bottled water.
(Read more: Hutch Post)