Authorities have informed residents of a bushfire stricken Australian town of the unsuitability of drinking tap water as they determine the effects of the recent fires on infrastructure.
The precautionary alert was released due to the results of inspections carried out, which had raised concerns that the local water supply may have been affected during the crisis.
Heat, smoke and firefighting efforts had all potentially impacted the water distribution network.
Citizens had been warned that they should not drink tap water or use it to make meals until further notice. They should make use of bottled water that had been provided at centers.
Local authorities reported the cautionary notice was made as a precaution until the testing is completed.
Water can come into contact with plastic pipes and other components if the fire damages them and enter the system when the pressure is reintroduced.
Ash and run off from the debris can enter catchments or reservoirs. This is especially a risk if large amounts of water have been used during firefighting.
This advice also covered brushing teeth, as well as making ice and infant formula. Boiling the water, authorities said would not make it safe in this case.
The concern in this instance is chemical contamination, not bacteria that can be killed by heat.
Residents were advised they could continue to use tap water for showering and washing clothes as long as care was taken to avoid swallowing it.
Emergency services and council teams quickly moved to establish alternative water supplies as the warning came into force.
Water tankers were delivered to evacuation places and key community sites, along with bottled water priority was given to vulnerable residents including elderly people and those with medical needs.
The situation has added another layer of strain to a community already dealing with the loss of homes, power disruptions and road closures.
Many residents returned to damaged properties with basic services unavailable or restricted, complicating cleanup efforts and the early stages of recovery.
Health officials said nausea, vomiting or skin irritation should be reported to a doctor especially if anyone might have drunk tap water since the fires.
They said that while no actual illnesses had been confirmed the risks were serious enough to justify clear and immediate advice.
Water utilities began detailed sampling across the network, testing for a range of possible contaminants linked to fire damage.
Results were expected to take time, and officials cautioned that the warning would stay in place until the system was confirmed safe.
Repairs to damaged sections of pipe and storage facilities may also be required before restrictions can be lifted.
State and territory governments had earlier warned that water quality can be a silent victim of bushfires, sometimes appearing days or weeks after the fire is extinguished.
The problem has been propelled to the forefront as extreme heat and fire conditions put growing stress on ageing infrastructure, especially in regional areas.
Authorities called on residents to remain aware by using only official updates and not to pay attention to rumors on social media.
They said clear guidance will be provided once testing is complete and the water supply is deemed safe to use again.
