Media Release

For Immediate Release
Date: Saturday, April 16, 2005
Contact: June Swallow, Chief, Office of Drinking Water Quality (401) 222-6867 or (401) 623-0467 after hours

Drinking Water Alert

Boil Water Advisory for Consumers of the East Providence Water System

Providence, April 16, 2005: Consumers of the East Providence Water System 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.

The presence of fecal coliform bacteria was confirmed in the public water supply of the City of East Providence, Rhode Island today (April 16).

The East Providence Water System is working closely with the Rhode Island Department of Health to correct the problem as soon as possible.

The presence of fecal coliform bacteria 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 consumers 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 about drinking water from their health care providers.

For more information, contact the East Providence Water System at: 435-7741. 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 http://www.health.ri.gov/environment/dwq/waterqa.php. For 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.

East Providence residents are asked to contact neighbors who may not be aware of this water problem