Arsenic Contamination Prompts Do Not Drink Order in Lisbon

The Lisbon Water Department has issued a 'Do Not Drink' order for residents due to concerns over arsenic contamination following an accidental release of sludge on Wednesday. Interim General Manager Shellie Reynolds indicated that the filters had failed, allowing sludge into the drinking water, and although filters have been changed, safe drinking water won't be confirmed until testing results are available on September 4. Residents are advised against using tap water for consumption, including brushing teeth and cooking, and to use bottled water provided by the town instead. Discolored water has been reported, prompting officials to offer bottled water at the Public Works Department, limited to one case per household. Authorities stress that boiling the water will not make it safe, and symptoms of arsenic exposure include nausea and low blood pressure. The water department is coordinating with the Maine CDC to resolve the issue and ensure safe drinking water for the community.