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The 5 things you need to know about the PWSA boil water alert

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority issued a precautionary flush and boil water advisory Monday night for customers in the northern neighborhoods of the city, as well as the Borough of Millvale and Reserve Township.

If are in one of those areas, here are the five things you need to know:

1.       WHO IS AFFECTED BY THE ADVISORY?

  • The advisory affects about 18,000 homes in its service area. The impacted areas are shown on this map.

2.       IF YOU LIVE IN THE AFFECTED ADVISORY AREA, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

  • Residents who do not know if their property has lead water pipes or solder, it is recommended to first flush your lines by running water from your tap for at least one minute before boiling.
  • Boil tap water vigorously for at least one minute prior to using it for drinking or cooking (the minute starts when the water begins to bubble). This includes water used for brushing teeth, making ice, washing raw foods, preparation of drinks and water for pets.
  • Wait for the water to cool before using it, or store it in the refrigerator in a clean container.

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3.       WHAT IF MY CHILD GOES TO SCHOOL IN THE AFFECTED AREA?

  • Pittsburgh Public Schools in the impacted areas will remain open.  The schools will receive daily deliveries of bottled water and all kitchen and utility sinks and water fountains will be covered to prevent use. Restroom sinks will remain uncovered so that students can wash their hands, and hand sanitizer will also be available.
  • Shaler School District said bottled water will be provided to students and staff at Reserve Primary and water fountains will be covered. Students will still be able to wash their hands in the bathrooms.  Food for breakfast and lunch will be prepared off-site by the school's food service contractor.
  • Propel Schools said water fountains at Propel Northside will be covered and unavailable to students, but bottled water will be available. Food will be delivered from an outside vendor.

4.        WHERE CAN I GET WATER?

  • Starting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, water buffalo tanks can be found at the locations shown on the map here.
  • If you cannot get to a water buffalo, city residents can call 311 for help.

5.        WHAT IF I OWN A BUSINESS IN THE AFFECTED AREA?

  • Businesses in neighborhoods affected should continue to follow the advisory.
  • Only provide pre-boiled PWSA water or bottled water.
  • The Allegheny County Health Department issued food safety guidelines for restaurants.  You can find those guidelines here.

For more information on boiling water visit the PWSA homepage (CLICK HERE).

Impacted customers will be notified by PWSA through automated robocalls.The boil water advisory will remain in place until further notice.

Anyone with questions can visit www.pgh2o.com or call Customer Service at 412-255-2423.

Channel 11 has several crews following this developing story and will provide updates as they come in. Refresh WPXI.com for the latest.

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Cox Media Group

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