SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) — Parts of South County are under a boil water advisory for a fourth day, after E.coli bacteria was found in the water supply.
School leaders are concerned, but they say the first day of classes will go on as planned, with a few adjustments.
South Kingstown’s superintendent Kristen Stringfellow sent a message to families, saying the school lunch menu will be flexible until the advisory is lifted, and meals will be prepared with bottled water.
Water fountains and sinks will also be shut down.
South Kingstown schools will be providing bottled water for drinking, as well as for hand-washing.
Health officials say they hope to have corrective actions in place by Wednesday.
If that’s accomplished as planned, the necessary follow-up water testing can begin.
Test results showing the absence of bacteria in the water are required every day for three days in a row before the advisory can be lifted.
Health officials say, so far, no illnesses have been reported.
A public water filling station has been set up at the Kingston fire station and is open for anyone who is affected.