WINCHESTER, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – The Winchester Fire Department and several local agencies responded to a possible water contamination incident Monday afternoon after an odor was reported in a home on Goamko Drive.

According to officials, firefighters were initially called for a medical emergency but soon identified the building’s tap water as a possible source of the odor. Because the residence is connected to the town’s water system, the Winchester Water Department was notified and began testing water sources throughout the community.

Multiple agencies responded to assist, including the Winchester Police Department, Keene Hazmat, Winchester Ambulance, and Cheshire EMS. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) was later called in to support the investigation.

As a precaution, an automated alert was sent to Winchester residents instructing them not to use town water until testing was completed and more information became available.

As of 1 a.m. Tuesday, initial testing results showed that the town’s water is usable but not consumable — meaning it can be used for non-drinking purposes but should not be ingested. Officials said further testing is underway, and additional updates will be released as results come in.

Residents are advised to follow official guidance and await further instructions before consuming town water.