Residents in parts of Jefferson and Walker Counties, including areas such as North Hoover, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, have reported issues with their tap water. Customers have complained about a foul smell and taste, prompting the Birmingham Water Works Board to take immediate action and address these concerns.
Investigation and Findings
The Birmingham Water Works Board (BWWB) swiftly responded to the complaints by conducting a series of water quality tests. According to their findings, the water is safe to drink despite the unpleasant taste and odor.
“We understand the concerns of our customers and take water quality issues very seriously,” said a spokesperson from the BWWB. “Our water quality team has conducted tests confirming that the water is safe to drink. Additionally, we are actively conducting flushing and sampling in accordance with our protocols and will continue to monitor the situation closely.”
Actions Taken by the Birmingham Water Works Board
Water Quality Testing: Upon receiving complaints, the BWWB conducted comprehensive water quality tests to ensure that there were no harmful contaminants present in the water supply.
Flushing Systems: To address the taste and odor issues, the BWWB initiated a flushing process. This involves opening hydrants to increase water flow and remove any stagnant water or build-up of sediments that could be contributing to the problem.
Ongoing Monitoring: The BWWB is continuing to monitor the water quality in the affected areas. This involves regular sampling and analysis to ensure that the water remains safe for consumption and to identify any ongoing issues that need to be addressed.
Customer Communication and Support
The BWWB has expressed appreciation for the patience and understanding of its customers during this period. They have committed to keeping the public informed about the steps being taken to resolve the issue and any new developments.
“Our goal is to provide the highest quality water to our customers. We appreciate your patience as we address this matter and want to reassure everyone that we are working diligently to resolve the issue as quickly as possible,” the BWWB spokesperson added.
What Customers Should Know
While the water has been deemed safe to drink, the BWWB acknowledges that the taste and odor issues are inconvenient and unpleasant. Customers who continue to experience problems are encouraged to report them to the BWWB to assist with ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts.
For those particularly sensitive to the taste and smell, the BWWB offers the following tips:
Refrigerate Water: Keeping water in the refrigerator can help improve its taste.
Use Filters: Consider using a water filter designed to remove taste and odor compounds.
Flush Taps: Running cold water for a few minutes before use can help clear any stagnant water in household pipes.
The Birmingham Water Works Board is actively addressing the concerns of residents in Jefferson and Walker Counties regarding foul-smelling and tasting water. Through rigorous testing, system flushing, and continuous monitoring, the BWWB is working to ensure that the water quality is maintained and any issues are promptly resolved. The Board remains committed to transparency and customer satisfaction as it navigates this challenge.
