BRIGHTON (WWJ) - Some residents in Livingston County woke up to little or no running water on Thursday morning after a water main ruptured in Brighton -- and those that do have water were told it could be unsafe.
"City of Brighton lost pressure and contamination may have occurred," city officials said in an alert about the incident. "DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. 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 preparing food, city authorities further advised.
"Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water. Continue using boiled or bottled water until further notice."
According to authorities, the water main broke just before 4 a.m. off Washington St. just south of Main St. leaving some homes without running water and others with just a trickle.
Pattie Thomas, Assistant to the Director in the Public Works Dept. said crews were on site and working to isolate the issue so repairs could be made.
The City of Brighton was placed immediately under the Boil Water Advisory as the break caused a drop in pressure and may have allowed bacteria to contaminate the water system.
"Bacteria are generally not harmful and are common throughout our environment," city officials added. "Whenever a water system loses pressure for any significant length of time, precautionary measures are recommended."
City Hall was forced to close over the break as Brighton High School canceled classes for the day.
Officials said the Boil Advisory is in effect until further notice, but hope to lift it within the next 48 to 72 hours. In addition to fixing the water main, authorities said water staff will be taking other precautions such as flushing and collecting bacteriological samples from around the system.
"The samples will be collected to determine that the water quality meets the state drinking water standards," they continued. "We will inform you when tests show no bacteria, and you no longer need to boil your water."
For more information, visit City of Brighton's website.