Westmoreland residents urged to be vigilant when purchasing water

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Westmoreland Public Health Department has issued a stern warning to residents about the potential dangers of purchasing trucked water from unverified sources. Gerald Miller, the parish’s health promotion and education officer, emphasized that water should only be sourced from the department’s three authorized loading bays located in Petersfield, Grange Hill, and Spring Garden. These sites, operated by the National Water Commission (NWC), are the sole approved locations for obtaining safe, potable water. Miller cautioned that water procured from unauthorized sources could lead to severe health risks, including diarrhoeal and other waterborne diseases. He urged the public to demand proof of purchase from truck operators, ensuring the water’s origin is legitimate. Historical incidents of truckers sourcing water from unsafe locations have heightened concerns, particularly during periods of emergency and water scarcity. Miller reiterated the importance of vigilance to safeguard public health, stressing that unsafe water remains a significant threat in such challenging times.