by Chris Berg originally posted on May 31, 2016

Mason City, Iowa – The city of Mason City has issued a boil advisory for one block along Highway 122 after a water main break earlier today.

Houses in the block from South York Avenue to South Rhode Island Avenue were without water at 11:30 a.m. Monday. Residents in that area should plan to boil water after pressure is restored until water testing shows the water is safe to drink.

Residents should bring water to a boil and boil it for one minute, then cool it before using. They should use boiled or bottled water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.

Tap water can be used for bathing and similar purposes.

Pressure losses create conditions which can allow bacteria to enter the water distribution system. The city or DNR will notify residents when the advisory is lifted.

For more information, call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791 for general guidelines on ways to reduce risks of infection.