
The Columbus water system is temporarily providing water that is disinfected, but not treated by reverse osmosis to decrease elevated levels of fluoride, arsenic and other issues.
A damaged control computer for the village's reverse osmosis system prompted a request to the state Monday for a waiver to temporarily by-pass the system.
State officials said the contaminants do not pose an immediate threat to public health... and regular consumers of the water system do not need to use an alternative water supply, such as bottled water. Also, residents are advised not to boil the water, because boiling is ineffective at reducing the levels of fluoride and arsenic.
State officials are cautioning residents with specific health concerns such as compromised immune systems to consult their doctors for advice on whether to substitute bottled drinking water. The reverse osmosis system is expected to be operational Thursday.