Following discussions with NSW Health, Bega Valley Shire Council has decided to continue the precautionary boil water alert for customers on the Brogo-Bermagui water supply, council said.

Council’s Environmental Health Coordinator, Greg O’Donnell said the quality of the river water had been rapidly improving, but the likelihood of another East Coast Low this weekend could again increase the water’s turbidity.

“The potential risk to water quality that this forecast storm presents has led to the decision to delay lifting the alert until the weather has passed,” Mr O’Donnell said.

Customers are asked to bring drinking water to a boil by heating the water until a continuous and rapid stream of bubbles is produced from the bottom of a pan or kettle.

Kettles with automatic cut-off switches are suitable and variable temperature kettles should be set to boil.

After heating, water must be allowed to cool before using it, and then be stored in a clean, closed container for later use.

Care should be taken to avoid scalding injuries.

Customers should boil all water used for drinking, brushing teeth, washing and preparing food or beverages, preparing baby formula, making ice and washing clothes.

Council advises customers they do not need to boil water if it is being used for showering and bathing  and advise the public to avoid swallowing the water.

As a precaution babies and toddlers should be sponge bathed to prevent them swallowing water and advise washed dishes should be air-dried before being used.

Council and NSW Health will review the situation early next week following this weekend’s projected storm event.

Council has said updated information will be made available to customers at that time.

Council appreciates the extra effort by customers and apologises for any inconvenience caused.