Residents Reminded to Properly Dispose of Pool, Hot Tub Water

The City of Thunder Bay is reminding residents to properly dispose of pool and hot tub water to protect the environment and comply with City by-laws.

Pools and hot tubs are filled with chemicals that keep them clean and safe for swimming, including chlorine, bromine, and salt. The creeks and rivers around Thunder Bay support fish and aquatic organisms which can be severely affected by these additives. 

Under City by-laws, water discharged from swimming pools and hot tubs must be neutralized and disinfected, and must flow directly into a storm sewer or City land drainage works, such as ditches in areas without storm sewer systems. The discharge must not flow onto neighbouring properties or cause any risk to property, health, or environment.

A few simple steps can help keep chemicals out of Lake Superior and protect aquatic life:

• Dechlorinate water before draining. Stop adding chlorine or bromine well in advance of draining and leave it uncovered to allow levels to dissipate naturally or use an appropriate dechlorination product according to the manufacturer’s directions.
• Use test kits to confirm chemical levels are as close to zero as possible before draining.
• Do not drain on a rainy day or just before a storm is forecasted.

For more information, residents can contact the City’s 24-hour dispatch line at 807-625-2195.

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Contact:      Ian Morgan, Chief Chemist, 807-625-3537