WINNIPEG - May 26, 2005 - The City of Winnipeg has received reports from concerned residents about salespeople going door-to-door offering to test water quality, and leaving residents with the impression that City water is not safe to drink.

Kelly Kjartanson, Acting Manager of the City’s Laboratory Services Division, says, “Residents should know that the City conducts in-home water testing only when requested by a resident and by appointment only. Our staff have City of Winnipeg photo identification.”

Patrol Sergeant Kelly Dennison of the Winnipeg Police Service reminds residents, “Under no circumstances should you allow persons into your home without proper identification. If you have any concerns about the validity of the identification, do not allow entry and contact your local Police Station. In case of emergencies call 911.”

The City does have staff going door-to-door right now, but only to read water meters. Meter readers visit homes and small businesses each year from May until August, weekdays between 4 p.m. and dusk. Water meter readers are dressed in dark blue pants and a light blue striped shirt with a City of Winnipeg Water and Waste Department logo over the pocket. All readers wear photo identification and carry a hand-held computer.

Kjartanson adds, “The safety of Winnipeg’s drinking water is regulated by Manitoba Health and Manitoba Water Stewardship. We routinely test our water each step of the way, from Shoal Lake to the tap.” For information on the steps we take to ensure safe, high-quality drinking water, see the blue pages at the back of the MTS White Pages Phone Book, or visit winnipeg.ca/waterandwaste/water.

Residents with questions about Winnipeg’s water can contact the Water and Waste Department's Customer Service Centre at 311.