The Rhode Island Department of Health has issued a precautionary boil water advisory for customers of the Stone Bridge Fire District public water system following a water main break Monday on Lawton Ave that caused a loss of water pressure.
A drop in pressure can allow bacteria to enter the system. Stone Bridge Fire District has repaired the break and is currently disinfecting the system by increasing chlorine levels within safe limits.
Until the advisory is lifted, all water used for consumption should be boiled vigorously for at least one minute. That includes water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation. Bottled water is an alternative. Infants and young children should not be bathed in the water, as they may accidentally swallow it. Others bathing or showering should avoid swallowing the water.
The advisory will remain in effect until the district completes disinfection, flushes the pipes, and collects one day of clean bacteria samples. An announcement will be made when it is lifted.
Notably, RIDOH said it will require Stone Bridge Fire District to submit a plan to address frequently occurring pressure-related problems, citing multiple pressure loss events within the past year.
Anyone with symptoms such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, or headaches should contact a healthcare provider, particularly if they experience fever over 101.5°F, blood in the stool, prolonged vomiting, signs of dehydration, or diarrheal illness lasting more than three days.
Customers with questions can call Stone Bridge Fire District at 508-676-3526. Additional guidance is available at health.ri.gov.
