Residents on the Eastbank of Jefferson Parish are advised to boil their tapwater before consuming it, after a water main break this afternoon.
Parish officials say water pressure dropped due to the break.
"This boil water advisory will remain in effect until rescinded by the Jefferson Parish Water Department or the LDH," the parish announced shortly before 5 p.m. Tuesday. "Bacteriological samples from the distribution system will be collected and analyzed to assure the water meets potable water standards."
The parish issued the following guidelines:
What should residents do?
All residents are urged not to drink the water without boiling or disinfecting it first, or use bottled water. Boiled, disinfected, or bottled water should be used before drinking, ice making, brushing teeth, washing dishes and in food preparation until further notice. Boil the water for a one full minute in a clean container. The one minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a bottle or pouring it from one container to another.
OR
Disinfect the water by mixing 1/8 teaspoon of unscented, liquid chlorine laundry bleach with one gallon of water and letting it stand for at least 30 minutes prior to consumption. Mix it thoroughly.
People with severely compromised immune systems, infants, and some elderly may be at increased risk and should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers.
