PRESS RELEASE
Orewa, 28th February 2007.
Available for immediate publication.

Council clarifies rain water issue

Following recent public concern about the potential health risks associated with roof-collected rainwater, Rodney District Council is recommending regular tank maintenance as a precautionary approach.

The council’s environmental health manager, Ian Farrell, says maintaining rainwater tanks makes good sense and is a relatively easy way of preventing the likelihood of illness.

“There is no argument that people who drink contaminated water get sick. That is why strict water quality standards are set by the Ministry of Health for our public supplies.

“However, people with their own water supply are solely responsible for water quality and must ensure it meets a standard that doesn’t pose a risk to anyone’s health,” says Mr Farrell.

There are several ways people can ensure their rainwater is of a safe drinking standard:

- If installing a new roof-water collection system use good quality, non-corrosive, lead-free materials; locate the tank on the cool side of the house; install screens and diverters to keep insects and leaves out; ensure building consent requirements including the installation of pumps and back-flow devices, are met.

- Discourage birds and animals - keep tree branches away from the roof and position TV aerials so they overhang the ground.

- Keep your gutters clear of debris.

- Tanks, roofs and gutters should be inspected annually and cleaned if necessary.

- Install a water filter or boil water used for drinking and food preparation.

For further information, the council has two brochures on collecting and using rainwater available at service centres and on their website at www.rodney.govt.nz; or people can contact an environmental health officer on 0800 426 5169 for advice.

Further information on safe household water is also available on the Ministry of Health website at www.moh.govt.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media