URGENT UPDATE: The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has just issued a boil water advisory for residents of the City of Liebenthal, effective from January 12, 2023. This critical advisory impacts the public water supply system in Rush County, demanding immediate action from residents to ensure their safety.
Officials have confirmed that an equipment failure has hindered the city’s ability to maintain the minimum required chlorine levels, risking bacterial contamination. Residents are urged to take the following precautions until further notice:
– Boil water for at least one minute before drinking or using it for food preparation, or opt for bottled water.
– Discard any ice made from tap water and avoid using household icemakers.
– If your tap water appears discolored, run the water until it clears to flush out the lines.
– Dishes and other food contact surfaces should be disinfected by soaking in a solution of one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water for at least one minute.
– While bathing, supervision of children is essential to prevent water ingestion. Individuals with cuts or severe rashes are advised to consult their physicians.
KDHE emphasizes that this advisory will remain in effect until the issues leading to the contamination risk are resolved and confirmed by laboratory testing. Only KDHE can lift the advisory once safety is assured.
For immediate inquiries, residents can contact the city’s water system at 785-222-6122 or reach out to KDHE at 785-296-5514. For further consumer information, visit the KDHE’s Public Water Supply Consumer Information webpage. Restaurants or food establishments seeking guidance on the advisory’s impact can connect with the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety & lodging program at [email protected] or call 785-564-6767.
This advisory serves as a crucial reminder for all residents to prioritize their health amid ongoing water supply challenges. Stay tuned for further updates as officials work to resolve this urgent situation swiftly.