On or about August 2nd 2012, the Town of Winnsboro will be purchasing drinking water from the City of Columbia for
its customers in the Blythewood area. This will affect all Winnsboro water
customers within Richland County. The City of Columbia utilizes chloramines for
disinfection of their water which differs from the Town of Winnsboro who
utilizes free chlorine.
Water customers of the Town of
Winnsboro in Richland County should be aware that chloramines can cause
problems to persons dependent on dialysis machines. A condition known as
hemolytic anemia can occur if the disinfectant is not completely removed from
the water that is used for the dialysate. Consequently, the pretreatment scheme
used for the dialysis units include some means, such as charcoal filter, for
removing chloramines. Medical facilities should also determine if additional
precautions are required for other medical equipment. Please check with your
physician should you have particular concerns.
Chloraminated water may be toxic to
fish. If you have a fish tank, please make sure chemicals or filters that you
are using are designed for use in water that has been treated with chloramines.
You may also need to change the type of filter that you use for your fish tank.
If you have any further questions
concerning this change you may call the Town of Winnsboro at 803-635-3333 extension 107.
Monitor the Town’s webpage: www.townofblythewoodsc.gov for updates.
