Diesel Spill Prompts Bottled Water Distribution in Killin
Bottled water deliveries continue for a second day to residents of Killin following a diesel spill into the River Dochart in Perthshire.
Scottish Water has advised locals to avoid using tap water for any purpose other than flushing toilets due to contamination impacting a water treatment facility.
The company reported that teams have been working continuously since the incident was detected, and the affected water treatment works was closed as a precaution.
Residents first noticed the issue after detecting a strong solvent taste in their tap water and unusual odors in the surrounding air. The problem originated from an attempted fuel theft at a nearby petrol station.
Scottish Water Response and Public Health Measures
John Griffin, water operations general manager, stated:
"Our priority is to protect public health by making sure no contaminated water enters the supply network."
He added that specialist teams are providing tailored advice to households and businesses, while volunteers assist with bottled water distribution.
"We are working incredibly hard to restore the treatment works and network to normal operations as quickly and safely as possible although this may take several days."
Customers have been cautioned that boiling the water will not eliminate contamination risks. They are urged to refrain from using tap water for drinking, cooking, washing, brushing teeth, feeding pets, or operating appliances connected to the mains supply such as coffee and ice machines.
Collaboration with Authorities and Network Flushing
Scottish Water is collaborating closely with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) and NHS partners to monitor water quality and evaluate the network status.
Water is being introduced into the local system to flush the pipes and remove contaminants.
Griffin expressed gratitude to the community, saying:
"We would like to thank everyone who has been affected for their patience, cooperation and community spirit. Restoring safe, normal water supplies for the village is our absolute priority, and our teams will remain on site until that is achieved."
Bottled water has been delivered door-to-door to all affected properties on Friday, with further deliveries planned for Saturday. Additionally, a hot food van is operating in Killin to support residents unable to prepare meals without safe tap water access.
Petrol Station Incident and Ongoing Investigation
A spokesperson for Certas Energy, operator of the GULF Lix Toll site at Killin, confirmed they were notified of a "fuel loss" on Friday morning following an attempted theft that damaged one of their fuel tanks.
They stated:
"Equipment was found on site that suggested there was an attempt to steal diesel from the tank."
The spokesperson added they share the community's concern and that addressing the incident's impact is their priority.
"We are now investigating to fully understand what happened, are engaging with the police, Sepa, the Health and Safety Executive and other specialists at the site. These investigations are ongoing."
They were unable to confirm how the fuel entered the river or whether the leak has been contained.
Environmental and Community Impact
Sepa reported receiving multiple contamination notifications regarding the river on Thursday evening and overnight.
Scottish Water closed the intake to the affected water treatment works and reiterated warnings against using tap water.
Killin Community Council posted on Facebook advising residents not to consume tap water until further notice, describing the event as a "major contamination incident." They also announced plans to bring water tankers to provide a temporary supply.
Affected Areas and Customer Support
Scottish Water identified specific postcodes impacted by the spill but confirmed that water from other reservoirs and treatment plants remains unaffected. Residents outside the affected postcodes can continue using their water supply normally.
Additional information is available on Scottish Water's website, and customers can call 0800 0778 778 for assistance.
An information center for customer support is set up at McLaren Hall, Main Street, Killin, FK21 8TN.
