SOUTH LAWRENCE — South Lawrence Utilities has issued an immediate boil water order for residents and businesses along US 50 West and surrounding areas. The advisory was triggered by a water main break that has potentially compromised the safety of the local water supply.
The order specifically affects customers located from Wesley Chapel Road to Bryantsville Road, as well as adjacent neighborhoods. Utility crews are currently on-site working to repair the break, but the boil order will remain in effect until further notice.
When a boil order is in effect, the water may contain harmful bacteria or pathogens. Until the utility confirms the water is safe, please follow these safety guidelines:
Boiling Water for Consumption
- The Method: Bring all tap water to a full rolling boil for at least one minute.
- Cooling: Allow the water to cool completely before using or storing it in clean, covered containers.
- When to Use Boiled (or Bottled) Water:
- Drinking and making ice (discard existing ice made from tap water).
- Brushing teeth.
- Washing fruits and vegetables.
- Preparing baby formula and food.
- Mixing drinks like coffee, tea, or juice.
Hygiene and Cleaning
- Handwashing: In most cases, it is safe to wash your hands with soap and tap water. Ensure you scrub for at least 20 seconds and dry them thoroughly.
- Bathing/Showering: Adults may continue to shower as long as no water is swallowed. Use extra caution with infants and toddlers; consider giving them a sponge bath with pre-boiled water to prevent accidental ingestion.
- Dishwashing: Use a dishwasher only if it has a sanitizing cycle or reaches a final rinse temperature of at least 150°F. If washing by hand, rinse dishes in a bleach solution (1 teaspoon of unscented bleach per gallon of warm water) and let them air dry.
- Laundry: It is generally safe to wash clothes as usual.
South Lawrence Utilities will notify the public once the repairs are completed and water quality tests confirm the supply is once again safe for normal use.
After the boil order is lifted, residents are advised to flush their pipes by running cold water faucets for several minutes and to replace any water filters that were in use during the advisory.
