On Monday, the city of Peoria issued a combined sewer overflow warning to all residents due to a sudden unplanned release from the potable water system.
Due to the release, the city has warned residents to take safety precautions when swimming, fishing and participating in other water-related pursuits.
Specifically, officials strongly urge citizens to avoid contact with the Illinois River in a specific zone bordered by Detweiller Marina going downstream. Until the city can complete a safe cleanup of the spill, it is best to refrain from swimming, jet skiing or water skiing.
Peoria officials said that the Detweiller Marina area should be avoided specifically during a rainstorm and for three days following a storm in order to avoid exposure to raw sewage. Those engaged in boating or fishing are cautioned to wash hands thoroughly before and after consuming food and beverages. Additionally, watercraft passengers are advised to use a waterless hand sanitizer when out on the river to fight off bacterial infection.
If preparing fish caught in the Illinois River, the Illinois Department of Public Health advises consumers to cook fish thoroughly. Local government officials have posted signs alongside the river in affected areas to identify the regions impacted by the sewer overflow.
Local residents and visitors can obtain more information at www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/factsheets/fishpam.htm, http://www.peoriagov.org/wetweather or by calling Jane Gerdes at 309-494-8819.
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