WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for a portion of Sedgwick County Rural Water District #4, affecting customers south of Kellogg. This advisory does not affect people who get their water from the City of Wichita.
The advisory was issued on April 17 after a waterline break caused a loss of pressure in the system. According to KDHE, the drop in pressure increases the risk of bacterial contamination due to reduced chlorine residuals in the water supply.
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Residents in the affected area are advised to take the following precautions until the advisory is lifted:
- Boil water for at least one minute before using it for drinking or food preparation.
- Use bottled water if available.
- Discard any ice cubes and avoid using ice from automatic ice makers.
- If water appears discolored, flush taps until it clears.
- Disinfect dishes and food-contact surfaces using a solution of one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.
- Bathing water does not typically need to be boiled, but children should be supervised to prevent accidental ingestion. Individuals with open wounds or severe skin conditions should consult a physician.
The advisory will remain in place until testing at a certified laboratory confirms the water is safe to drink. Only KDHE has the authority to rescind the advisory once conditions are resolved.
Customers with questions can contact the water district at 316-749-7320 or the KDHE at 785-296-5514 .
Additional information is available on KDHE’s Public Water Supply Consumer Information page at kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service…