BLUE LAKES A boil water notice for the Blue Lakes Resort Subdivision was issued over the weekend after an excavation for a new water service line compromised part of a 4-inch asbestos cement water main.
The state Department of Health Services and Blue Lakes Improvement Club Water System are advising the residents and businesses of Blue Lakes Resort Subdivision to use boiled tap water or bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes as a safety precaution until further notice.
The order states that all tap water used for drinking or cooking should be boiled rapidly for at least one minute to ensure that the water is safe to drink.
Alternately, for those without gas or electricity available, water can be made safer by using fresh liquid household bleach (Clorox, Purex, etc.). To do so, add 8 drops (or 1/4 teaspoon) of bleach per gallon of clear water or 16 drops (1/2 teaspoon) per gallon of cloudy water, mix thoroughly, and allow to stand 30 minutes before using. A chlorine-like taste and odor will result from this purification procedure and is an indication that adequate disinfection has taken place.
Water purification tablets may also be used by following the manufacturers instructions.
Failure to properly treat drinking water could result in stomach or intestinal illness, the order warned.
Emergency water treatment and testing are being conducted by Blue Lakes Improvement Club Water personnel or contracted employees to resolve the water quality emergency, the order reported.
The Blue Lakes Improvement Club Water personnel will notify residents as soon as the water is safe to drink.
For more information, call Water Operations Manager David Eby, 275-2771, or Bruce Burton of the state s Department of Health, 707-576-2145.
