In Westerly, health officials have told residents to boil the water before drinking it, after the discovery of E. coli bacteria in the public water supply. The state Department of Health said water should be boiled for at least one minute, if it is to be used for human consumption such as cooking and drinking.
The presence of E. Coli indicates fecal matter in the water. Officials say it was detected in a routine sample taken on Monday.
The water supply where the bacteria was found is sold to customers in Westerly and Pawcatuck. The boil water advisory will remain in effect until corrective actions are completed and testing shows the water is safe to consume.