Newark Delaware residents told to boil water

Some residents in Newark are being asked to boil their water, until crews can fix a water main break that occurred early this morning.

City officials say as many as 130 homes in the Windy Hills and Kirkwood Highway area are affected.

“The break is being repaired, but what needs to happen is they need to test for the bacteria to make sure there’s no bacteria in that water,” said Newark Community Affairs Officer Dana Johnston. “And until we get those test results back that say there’s no bacteria in the water we’re recommending that people boil their water before using it.”

Customers in this area may be at risk for E. coli bacteria contaminated drinking water. The bacteria can make people sick and is of particular concern for people with weakened immune systems. Customers are being advised to bring the water to a boil, let it boil for a minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills the bacteria and other organisms in the water. 

The public will be informed when tests show bacteria is no longer present and boiling water is no longer needed. This should be resolved within 48 hours, according to officials.