The County of Grande Prairie has issued a water advisory for the hamlet of Teepee Creek due to high levels of manganese caused by a failure of the water filtration system.
Tap water is not safe for cooking or drinking and cannot be boiled, said the advisory, adding that the water can still be used for bathing and washing.
Infants under five and pregnant women should use bottled water for drinking and preparing baby formula, food, hot and cold beverages and ice cubes.
Adults and older children are at a lower risk but should still take precautions.
The county is currently working to secure potable water for the community while repairs to the water filtration system are being completed. Residents will be notified when water becomes available and when the community’s drinking water is restored.
Health Canada says exposure to high levels of manganese in drinking water can cause neurological and behavioural effects, deficits in memory, attention and motor skills.