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Thurston County Home

March 1, 2001

1:30 p.m.

County Offers Free Water Testing Through March 16;

Septic System and Hazardous Waste Advisories

In response to the February 28 earthquake, Thurston County will offer free testing of drinking water through Friday, March 16 to residents using single-family wells. Testing will be for bacteria only. Residents on multiple-family wells are advised to contact their water purveyors or utility.

Specimen bottles are available at the Environmental Health office on the second floor of Building 1 at the County Courthouse at 2000 Lakeridge Drive in Olympia. Bottles can also be obtained at the Yelm City Hall, the Tenino City Hall, and Rainier City Hall as well as the Rochester Organization of Families on Highway 12 next to Larry’s Chevron.

Instructions for collecting water samples are included with the test bottles. Citizens are advised to boil cloudy or suspiciously smelling water for 3-5 minutes before drinking. Concerned citizens can call 754-3360 for more information.

 Septic Systems

Residents concerned about their septic systems should also call 754-3360, and are urged to keep children and animals away from any seepage.

 Hazardous Waste

County health officials advise citizens to avoid skin contact with hazardous materials such as oil, pesticides and household solvents. Wear gloves and use kitty litter or sawdust to absorb spills. Store in tight containers and take to the Hazo House at the Thurston County Landfill. Hazo House hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The service is free to homeowners.