Media Release

For Immediate Release
Date: Thursday, August 28, 2003
Contact: June Swallow, Chief, Office of Drinking Water Quality (401) 623-0467

Drinking Water Warning

Boil Water Advisory for North Kingstown Water System

Providence, August 28, 2003: Customers of the Town of North Kingstown Water System (low service area) are advised to boil water before drinking it. The RI Department of Health suggests all water be boiled for one minute, and allowed to cool before using. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water. Bottled water can also be used. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, food preparation, and bathing of infants until further notice. Washing dishes by hand or in the dishwasher is permitted during the boil water advisory.

The presence of fecal coliform was confirmed in the public water supply of the Town of North Kingstown Water System (low service area) today (August 28th). The "low service area" includes all customers of the North Kingstown Water System, except those in the Saunderstown and Slocum areas (west of Route 4 and south of Hamilton Allentown Road) and except those at the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation. The North Kingstown Water Department is working closely with the Rhode Island Department of Health to correct the problem as soon as possible.

The presence of fecal coliform indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. Microbes in these wastes can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They pose a special health risk for infants, young children, and people with severely compromised immune systems. If residents experience any of these symptoms, even if tap water has been avoided, they may want to seek medical advice. Those at increased risk should seek advice from a health care provider about drinking water.

For more information, contact Susan Licardi of the Town of North Kingstown Water office at 294-3331, extension 230. Information is also available during business hours from the Rhode Island Department of Health, Office of Drinking Water Quality at (401) 222-6867, after hours at (401) 272-5952. For general information on water supply bacterial contamination problems go to www.health.ri.gov/environment/dwq/waterq&a.htm or for general guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1 (800) 426-4791.

North Kingstown Water System customers should contact neighbors who may not be aware of this water problem.