Crystal City has issued a boil water advisory for residents due to a water main break. The advisory was issued today, May 14, at about 10 a.m., in accordance with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources regulations.
A boil water advisory indicates that while contamination is not confirmed, the potential for contamination exists. According to a notice from the city, until further notice residents should boil all drinking water for at least three minutes before using it for drinking, food preparation, brushing teeth, and washing dishes, unless using a dishwasher with a sanitizing cycle. Do not use ice from an automatic ice maker. Water should be allowed to cool before use. Boiled water should be stored in clean, covered containers.
Residents may disinfect dishes and other items by immersing them in clean tap water with one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.
Otherwise, residents may safely use water from the tap for cleaning and bathing, but children should be supervised.
The boil advisory will remain until bacteriological samples confirm that the water is safe to drink and the Missouri DNR gives clearance. City officials said they anticipate it will take approximately 24 to 48 hours.