Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) yesterday advised residents of the low coastal regions of Guyana to implement the following precautionary measures in the event of excessive rainfall and flooding. Should the water supply be compromised due to flooding, ensure that all tap water intended for food and drink preparation and for brushing teeth etc is boiled for 15 minutes. Ensure that boiled water, whilst cooling before use, is stored in a tightly covered container.  Customers are advised to use buckets with only to avoid the contamination of water which is stored within the home.
GWI advises that alternatively, water can be made safe by using household bleach: add 3 to 4 drops of household bleach to each gallon of water, mix well and allow to stand for 30 minutes before use. Again, ensure that treated water is stored in a tightly covered container. GWI advises residents to practise rainwater harvesting.  To avoid contamination, allow water to runoff from the roof for approximately 30 minutes before collection.
In addition, customers are reminded to practise hand washing with soap or using hand sanitizers after coming in contact with flood waters, especially before eating meals or after using the toilet and cleaning babies.
Further, customers are advised to promptly repair all leaking pipelines on their premises.  For further information customers are advised to call the GWI Customer Services Call Centre on 227-8701, email us at customercallcentre@gwi.gy, or visit us at www.gwiguyana.com  or via social media at www.facebook.com/everydropcountsgy