Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find out if my water is okay?
 Your local water utility has a process in place to alert you if any problems exist with your tap water. However, if you have special concerns, you should feel free to contact your local utility. The phone number of your local water utility is (712)546-5555. LeMars water Department also has a "Annual Water Quality report" and has water quality reports on this site, that includes how your utility treats it to safeguard your health, and other water facts.

How will I be informed if something is wrong with my water?
 The LeMars Water Department is required to notify their customers if their water may not be safe to drink. Prompt customer notification is an important part of our emergency plan.  The LeMars Water Department may issue "boil water or do-not-drink notices" when testing indicates that contamination may be present. Often, this boil alert will be broadcast on local television or radio station. Some utilities employ a system that may automatically call its customers with specific guidance, or go to door-to-door if it is an emergency situation. Here is the  name, address and telephone number  of the LeMars Water Department if you have any more concerns.

If something is wrong with the water will it be cloudy or change color?
 Not usually. Slight color changes usually do not indicate a serious water problem. For example, a color change could result from minute quantities of iron in your water. This can occur immediately following a flushing of the distribution system. Sometimes dissolved air escaping from the water will cause bubbles that make water look cloudy. in either case, nothing is wrong with the water quality.  Both are safe to drink.

If my water is contaminated, will it taste or smell differently?
 Most contaminants are detected by sophisticated testing you water utility conducts on a regular basis, and not by taste and odor. However, some contaminants can be detected by smell, and if you have a concern about how your water tastes or smells, stop using it and contact the LeMars Water Department immediately. Your utility has been testing the water for a wide range of contaminants for years to ensure that you and your family have plenty of clean, safe drinking water.  And We will continue to provide these safeguards now-and in the future.

Should I buy bottled water?
 The Environmental Protection Agency has set strict quality standards that all tap water must comply with. Bottled water is not held to these same standards. it is matter of personal choice, however, if you've never had a problem with your tap water, there's really no reason to start drinking bottled water now.

How much water should I store for emergencies?
 Storing an adequate supply of potable (drinking) water is always a good emergency preparedness idea. Earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, even power outages can interrupt the flow of water. Depending on your personal circumstance, you should store enough water for no less than three days and no more then 14 days. The average American household uses an average of two gallons of water each day for drinking and cooking. To determine your exact usage, conduct a two-day test measuring the water you use to drink, brush your teeth, and cook-don't forget kitchen cleanup. Store the water either in new containers or containers used to store drinking water. DON'T USE DISCARDED PLASTIC MILK CONTAINERS! Make sure the containers are airtight. Store them in a cool location, and change them every few months to keep the water fresh.

Should I start filling up jugs of water now?
 Yes. It is always wise to have an adequate supply of drinking water on hand.

What if my drinking water comes from my own water well?
 If you are one of the approximately 21 million people in the United States who use private well water, you are responsible for the testing and quality of your water. Contact your local department of health or us to determine where your water can be tested.

How can I help Keep water safe?
 Water plants, water storage tanks, water towers and other utility facilities are located throughout your community. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity around these facilities and if you see something unusual, contact the police immediately.  Also be aware that everyday activities may contribute to the health of your drinking water.

What Should I do if something is wrong with my water?