Scottish Water has launched a major operation to support the Perthshire community of Killin after a suspected fuel spill in the River Dochart was identified on Friday 20 February.

Following the initial alert, the local water treatment works was shut down as a precaution. Specialist teams have been working continuously to manage the situation and protect the local supply network from contamination.

At present, customers in the affected area are being instructed not to use their tap water for any purpose other than flushing toilets. This restriction applies to drinking, cooking, washing, brushing teeth, and feeding pets. Scottish Water has highlighted that boiling the water will not make it safe for consumption and that mains-connected appliances, such as ice or coffee machines, should not be used.

John Griffen, Water Operations General Manager, stated: "Our priority is to protect public health by making sure no contaminated water enters the supply network. We are doing everything we can to support customers who have been affected by providing reliable alternative supplies while the normal supply is unavailable. That includes specialist staff who can provide advice to households and businesses on an individual level. Volunteers are also being mobilised to help with bottled water. 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."

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To assist the community, Scottish Water is tankering fresh water into the local network. This process allows the pipe system to be flushed and ensures residents can continue to flush toilets.

Engineers at the treatment works are currently performing comprehensive equipment checks and cleaning. This work includes the replacement of any components impacted by the spill to prepare the facility for a safe return to service.

The utility provider is collaborating with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and NHS partners to monitor water quality and evaluate the status of the network.

John Griffen added: "This will also ensure that when the network can brought back into normal operation, it does so safely and with the highest levels of water quality assurance. At the treatment works, specialist engineers are carrying out detailed checks and cleaning of equipment, replacing any components affected and preparing the site for a return to service as soon as it is safe. 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."