Advisory issued for Haywood creeks, river after fuel spill

WAYNESVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) —

A recreational water advisory has been issued for several Haywood County waterways after a diesel fuel spill.

Haywood County Emergency Services posted the alert on its Facebook page Sunday afternoon.

The precautionary advisory is pending a cleanup and remediation for Jones Cove Creek, Richland Creek below Jones Cove Creek and the Pigeon River below Richland Creek in Clyde, a Facebook post from Haywood County officials said.

This is not a source of drinking water, officials said.

Anyone who notices discolored water, sheens or fish kills in these waterways should avoid coming into contact with the water and report the conditions to 828-356-2781.

Until the water is tested and declared safe, environmental and public health officials recommend:

• Avoid swimming, wading or fishing in these areas until further notice.
• Avoid skin contact with water, soil and sediment in or near the river.
• If skin comes in contact with contaminated sediment or water, thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water.
• If you are concerned you, your family and/or pets have been exposed to these waterways, contact your health care provider or veterinarian.

For further information, contact Haywood County Emergency Management at 828-356-2781 or Haywood County Environmental Health Services at 828-356-2111. Additional information regarding health questions about fuel oils including kerosene is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.