Please be aware that independent tests of Panzer Kaserne’s water supply, ordered on behalf of the garrison and taken from four different locations on Aug. 31, have all been assessed to be compliant with the German Drinking Water Ordinance with no evidence of impurities.
GENERAL INFO
Which areas are affected by the drinking water contamination?
The current contamination in the water network affects the supply areas ‘East,’ ‘West,’ ‘Diezenhalde’ and ‘Dagersheim,’ which are supplied via the “Hochbehälter Brand.” [Editor’s Note: This area does NOT include Panzer Kaserne]. A boiling requirement is currently in effect in these areas. The elevated tank ‘Brand’ does not show any direct contamination. However, as a precaution, we have informed the entire city of Böblingen, including Dagersheim. The boiling ban and the chlorination of the drinking water is a precautionary measure and serves to protect the health of the population. All current information on the further course of events can be found on the home page of our website and on our social media channels (Instagram and Facebook). [Editor’s Note: USAG Stuttgart provides updated information from the city via its own social media channels, including StuttgartCitizen.com]
Is it already foreseeable how long the boil water requirement will last?
No conclusive statement can be made on this at present. We are continuously assessing the situation and are taking the necessary measures in close cooperation with the health authorities. Daily sampling is currently helping us to narrow down the source of contamination with increasing precision. As soon as we have more definitive findings, we will inform the public without delay.
Which bacteria were found?
Bacteria were detected at four of five sampling sites. Mostly coliform bacteria were identified. Sampling is currently being systematically expanded in coordination with the health department. The boil-off order issued is a precautionary measure and serves to protect the health of the population.
What is the risk if you have already drunk from this water?
Provided that there are no pre-existing conditions, the contamination does not pose a health risk. Nevertheless, please pay attention to symptoms. Please contact your family doctor if you have any medical questions.
Is flushing also carried out in areas that are not affected, or is the chlorine content increased there as well?
Outside the designated area, the chlorine content is not increased. Precautionary flushing is not necessary. This is because the water comes from physically separate sections of the network and thus originates from other elevated tanks.
How often do routine sampling and checks take place?
In accordance with legal requirements, the municipal utilities carry out sampling at every measuring point. In addition, checks are carried out by the upstream suppliers and authorities.
What is the cause of the drinking water contamination?
Intensive investigations are underway to narrow down the cause, and are still ongoing.
HOUSEHOLD: DRINKING, WASHING, RINSING & ETC.
Can you wash vegetables, dishes, etc. by hand or should you do it with boiled water?
As a precaution, we recommend washing vegetables, dishes, etc. with boiled or bottled water.
Is it safe to shower and brush teeth?
The water can be used as service water without hesitation. This means that showering is possible without any problems. When brushing teeth, boiled water or bottled water should be used as a precaution.
Is the water harmful to washing machine, dishwasher, water-based room air purifier, etc.?
No, it is not harmful to household appliances. However, we would not recommend the operation of water-based room air purifiers for the time being.
Can the washing machine and dishwasher be used regularly?
Yes, the washing machine and dishwasher can be used regularly. However, no economy program should currently be selected for the dishwasher, so that sufficiently high temperatures are reached during the rinse cycle.
Can pets drink the water?
As a precaution, we recommend giving boiled water or bottled water.
