Boil Water Advisory Lifted for Most Customers - Continues for Portions of NE Updated 1:00 P.M. July 14, 2018

July 14, 2018
high boli water area

Updated: 1:49 P.M.: New interactive map available

DC Water has determined boundaries for a smaller affected area under the boil water advisory. No contamination was detected outside of this area. Customers can view the interactive map or call the 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400 to verify if they reside in the affected area. Customers located in the affected area should continue boiling water for drinking and cooking until further notice. Customers that are not located in this area are not affected and can use tap water normally. Customers residing in the previous impact area that are no longer under the boil water advisory should run cold water taps for 10 minutes before returning to normal water usage. Running the cold water tap will replace water sitting in pipes during the advisory with clean water from the water main.

The smaller impact area includes portions of neighborhoods east of North Capitol Street, including University Heights, Michigan Park, N. Michigan Park, Queens Chapel and Brookland.

We anticipate we will have new test results back and will be able to update customers by 10 am on Sunday, July 15.

Customers affected by the boil water advisory should follow these precautions:

  • If water is discolored, run the tap until clear, prior to boiling.
  • Bring water to a rolling boil for 3 minutes.
  • Allow water to cool before using.
  • Store cooled water in a clean container with a cover.

Customers should use cooled, boiled water or bottled water for:

  • Drinking
  • Brushing teeth
  • Preparing and cooking food
  • Making ice (discard beverages and ice that were made prior to boil water advisory)
  • Preparing infant formula
  • Giving water to pets

*Do not use home filtering devices in place of boiled or bottled water

On July 14, DC Water received one positive test result out of the multiple sites tested throughout the affected area that indicated the presence of contamination. DC Water is working closely with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to notify the public and take steps to remove any contamination. To correct the problem, DC Water will continue flushing water from the system, and testing water samples to assess water safety. The safety and health of our customers are our top priorities, and the boil water advisory will remain in effect until we confirm that the water is safe.

On July 12, an open valve at Bryant Street Pumping Station resulted in a loss of pressure in portions of our distribution system for about an hour. The loss of pressure in the pipe system made it possible for contaminants to enter the water.

Some populations may be at greater risk for adverse health effects. If you are in this more sensitive group, please consult your medical provider for advice. Symptoms associated with exposure to contamination include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact your medical provider.

Please share this information with everyone in the affected area, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. DC Water will provide the next update later today.

Bilingual Boil Water Advisory FAQs can be found at www.dcwater.com/boilwaterFAQ and provide additional guidance for affected customers.

Customers with water quality questions should contact the 24-Hour Command Center at (202) 612-3400 or the Drinking Water Division at (202) 612-3440 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.). All other questions or suggestions should be directed to DC Water Customer Service at (202) 354-3600 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.). Information is also available at www.dcwater.com.

 

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