Residents of the Dokis First Nation are being told not to drink the water there, due to the closure of the community water system.
Dokis First Nation is under a state of emergency and all public buildings have been closed until further notice.
Equipment in the water plant is 25 years old and there has been a breakdown in the diesel line from the generator. This has leaked into the reservoir.
Water turned off as soon as soon as the diesel leak was discovered, says the Band's website.
The “State of Emergency” was declared through Indian Affairs.
An “Emergency Control Group” meeting has taken place, drinking water bottles ordered and water distribution arranged to be delivered to compromised Elders.
Samples from distribution lines for have been sent for lab analysis to determine if diesel is in the water lines. Results are expected tomorrow.
Parts are being installed to bypass the reservoir to allow raw water to homes for flushing toilets only.
Water bottles are being given out from 5 to 8 p.m. until future water sampling tests prove the water is safe to drink.
The website adds "This process could take up to a few weeks until all traces of diesel are removed and adequate repairs are completed to the generator and reservoir."
The band is located at the west end of Lake Nipissing on the French River and serves a residential population of approximately 200.
