CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO — In Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 14,000 water customers are under a boil water advisory due to a significant water main break, and the water plant has been shut down. The city says all customers could lose water by Tuesday morning.
An alert from the city of Cape Girardeau says after the water main break happened Monday, the water system began losing pressure. The alert says all customers on the City of Cape Girardeau Water System should limit their water usage.
The city says it’s working to isolate the issue and repair it.
Regarding the boil advisory, the city says there is no known problem with the water’s quality, and the advisory has been issued “out of an abundance of caution.”
However, the city says “the low pressure means a problem could develop.”
“All customers in the affected area should use bottled water or tap water that has been boiled and cooled before consumption,” the alert advises.
The city has a notification system residents can sign up for to receive updates on the water main break. So sign up for alerts from the city of Cape Girardeau, visit cityofcapegirardeau.org.
What does the boil water advisory mean
The city of Cape Girardeau sent the following information for residents regarding the boil water advisory:
“Customers are experiencing low water pressure across the city. If you have low water pressure, boil water and cool it prior to consumption. (Conserve per new message above)
What does a boil order or advisory mean?
It means that water that comes out of the tap should not be used for drinking, brushing your teeth, cooking or washing fruits and vegetables. You should use bottled water for those activities. This advisory is precautionary.
Can I drink the water?
During a boil order, only bottled water or water that has been boiled for 3-5 minutes and then cooled should be consumed or used to wash dishes, wash fruits/vegetables, make ice cubes or brush teeth.
Can I wash my hands in this water?
It’s recommended that bottled water or water boiled for 3-5 minutes and then cooled should be used for hand washing. When this is not practical, it is recommended that if tap water must be used to wash and rinse, it should be followed up with the use of a hand sanitizer. Consuming unsafe water is the most likely way to become ill. Using extra precautions with hand washing ensures that hands are clean for eating.
Can I shower or take a bath in this water?
Yes, it is safe to shower or bathe in the water. The primary concern is that the water not be consumed. Instruct children not to put the water in their mouth when they are bathing. When bathing infants, extra precaution should be taken – it’s recommended to use bottled water or water that has been boiled for 3-5 minutes and cooled for use.
How do I do my dishes?
Use bottled water or water that has been boiled for 3-5 minutes to wash and rinse dishes. Home dishwashers cannot be assured to completely kill organisms that may be in the water.
Can I wash my clothes in the water?
Yes, you may continue to use the water to wash clothes. The major concern is consuming the water.“
