KDHE
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a Nitrate Advisory
for the City of Stockton public water supply system, located in Rooks County. Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:
• DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. Infants below the age of 6 months who drink water containing nitrate higher than the maximum contaminant level (MCL) could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die.
• Juice, formula and food for children under 6 months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water or other water low in nitrates should be used for infants until further notice.
• DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level. Excessive boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.
• ADULTS AND CHILDREN older than 6 months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they can’t process nitrates in the same way adults can). However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your doctor.
The city will provide free of charge an alternate source of drinking water for all infants less than 6 months of age, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider. Alternate water will be available for customer pick-up at the 4-H Building at the Rooks County Fairgrounds, 998 S. Elm.
The advisory took effect Monday and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are resolved. Only KDHE can rescind this Nitrate Advisory following testing at a certified laboratory.