Aug 8, 2008 9:59 pm US/Eastern
E. Coli Found In Pembroke Water System
Boil Order In Effect For 5,600 Households
PEMBROKE (WBZ) ―
Reverse 911 calls were placed to residents in Pembroke Friday night, alerting them that E. coli has been detected in the city's water system.
Pembroke police officials said the calls did not go out to all residents and that some were unaware of the warning.
As part of the warning, a boil order has been issued, meaning residents should not drink the water without boiling it first.
Pembroke Water Department officials said all of the town's 5,600 households are affected.
Residents are asked to bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation until further notice.
Officials said the boiling order could be in effect all weekend.
The E. coli bacteria was detected in repeat samples of water taken on Wednesday. The bacteria was found in three out of 28 samples taken so far this month.
As a result, officials say they have isolated the High Street tank and additional chlorine is being added to the distribution system. Officials will continue to test the water until the problem is resolved.
Fecal coliforms and E. coli are bacteria that, when found in water, indicate the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes. The bacteria can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches and other symptoms. Infants, young children, the elderly and those with weak immune systems are especially at risk.
Protect yourself against E. coli in your water
Visit the Town of Pembroke's Web site
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