Health officials are offering thousands of local residents who own wells to have their units tested for free.
According to the Florida Department of Health, there are over 9,000 parcels in Seminole County that are served by private wells. Many of those wells have been impacted by Hurricane Ian, which passed through Central Florida on September 29.
“If your well was affected by flood waters, there may be disease-causing organisms in your water, making it unsafe to drink,” reads a statement from FDOH.
The department has partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency to offer residents free well water testing and screening for E. coli and fecal coliforms.
To request free well water testing, contact the Citizens Information Line at 407-665-0000, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Authorities say that testing is only for the “edification” of residents and that positive bacteria tests will not result in water systems being condemned. If positive, individuals will need to disinfect their wells, repair water systems, or install treatment equipment.