by Richard Sharkey, originally posted on September 9, 2016

A water boil advisory is in effect for the Detroit Street area in Alexandria.

Water pressure was lost during repairs to a six-inch water main in the 2500 block of Detroit Street, resulting in the boil advisory, according to Utility Director Michael Marcotte.

The boil advisory is to remain in effect until further notice for water customers in the affected area, which is between Detroit Street and New York Avenue.

It is recommended that all consumers in the affected area disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods.

To disinfect the water, boil it for one full minute in a clean container. Shaking can eliminate the flat taste of the water, as can pouring it from one clean container to another or adding a small pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.