The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued a “boil water notice” for the City of Three Rivers.

Due to a drop in pressure in the city’s water supply, bacterial contamination may have occurred in the water system.

The notice says bacteria are generally not harmful and are common throughout our environment and corrective measures have been undertaken to correct the situation.

The notice advises residents NOT to drink the water without boiling it first.  Water should be brought to a boil, boiled for one minute, and let 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.  Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.

These precautionary actions are being taken due to the loss of water pressure in the water distribution system caused by a frozen line on Monday (December 22nd).  Whenever a water system loses pressure for any significant length of time, precautionary measures are recommended.

According to Jim Rozeboom, Director of Public Services, the soonest the boil water notice can be lifted is some time on Wednesday and the notice will remain in effect until results from sampling verify the water is safe to drink.  Late Monday afternoon, Rozeboom explained what happened: Jim Rozeboom audio clip (1:10).

Customers will be advised when the boil water advisory has been lifted.

For more information, contact the Department of Public Services at (269) 273-1845.

General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1 (800) 426-4791.

Editor’s Note:  This story was updated @ 9:45 p.m. Monday, December 22nd, to provide additional information including the audio clip with Jim Rozeboom.