Florence ordered to boil tap water
Staff writer
A water main break Tuesday morning caused enough pressure loss that Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for Florence.
Mayor Bob Gayle said the break happened near 10th and Marion Sts.
“By the time we got it dug up and got it done, we’d lost pressure up on the hill,” Gayle said.
Water pressure fell below 20 pounds per square inch, meaning bacteria can build in the water.
Gayle said the break was caused by age of the line and shifting ground.
He expects the boil advisory to be lifted Thursday after the water tower and well that supply water to the tower are refilled, hydrants around town are flushed, and samples have been sent to KDHE.
According to KDHE, customers should:
- Use bottled water or boil tap water for one minute before drinking it or using it in food preparation.
- Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household icemaker.
- If tap water appears dirty, flush lines by letting water run until it clears.
- Disinfect dishes and other surfaces that contact food by immersing them for at least a minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon.
- Water used for bathing generally does not need to be boiled. Children bathing should be supervised so they do not ingest water. People with cuts or severe rashes should consult a physician.
Only KDHE can rescind a boil order and only after testing at a certified laboratory.