Update (Jan. 14, 2021): Natick Department of Public Works reports that “Crews have found no signs of tampering of the water distribution system during their physical reviews of well sites, water treatment facilities, and water storage facilities. Inspections were conducted through the night and continue.”
Natick’s Department of Public Works issued an alert to residents on Wednesday that they should boil water, per order of the state’s Department of Environmental Protection, for at least a minute before consuming it in light of E. coli bacteria being discovered in drinking water samples collected on Jan. 12.
The issue also affects around 80 homes in Wellesley.
Water should also be boiled before using it in food preparation, brushing teeth, and washing dishes, or use bottled water. E. coli bacteria can make you ill, and is a particular concern for those with weakened immune systems.
This warning applies until further notice.
According to the state’s Department of Environmental Protection, “Pets: The same precautions to protect humans apply to pets. Do not expose aquatic organisms (e.g., fish) to water containing elevated bacteria levels. If you need to refresh the organism’s water, use appropriately boiled or bottled water.”
The town has removed water sources that tested positive and has increased water disinfection treatments.
“The town hopes to resolve this inconvenience within the next few days,” according to a Natick recording.
When the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection issues a public health order, public water suppliers are required to notify customers.
More: Past Natick Water Quality Reports
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Interesting – I ended up in the ER tonight after several days of bloody diarrhea
jeez, we hope you have recovered.
Hello,
How about showering? Are we still able to take showers or is that I’ll advised and we should not wash our bodies at all until this issue is resolved? Thank you.
Fine for adults as long as you don’t swallow the water. Mass Department of Environmental protection says to sponge bathe young kids, but not in a tub full of water where they might ingest
We, too, experienced upset stomachs for several days.
Can we wash our hands with tap water, or should we use boiled water?
Hi Dee, here’s what the state’s Dept of Environmental Protection says: Wash your hands with soap and boiled water, or soap and bottled water. If you only have tap water to use, it is best to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after washing your hands. If neither is possible and your hands have been exposed to germs (such as after using the bathroom), washing with warm tap water and soap and thoroughly drying your hands is much better than not washing them at all. In these instances, try to keep your hands away from your mouth and use a hand sanitizer as soon as possible after you’re done.
Thank you.