The mayor of Harbour Grace is optimistic that a problem experienced with contamination in the town’s water lines has been addressed, but they’re awaiting final test results before lifting a non-consumption order.

The order was put in place after the town repaired a water leak near the old Imperial Esso in the town’s west end earlier this week.

Mayor Terry Barnes says once air got into the lines, residents noticed a smell of oil or gas when they turned on their faucets. As a precaution, the town imposed a non-consumption order, meaning that residents cannot consume the water – including brushing your teeth or cooking with water.

Barnes says the town is now awaiting the results of testing on the water before the non-consumption order can be lifted.

In the meantime, bottled water is available through the town council. Some 700 cases have already been distributed to residents.