Boil Notice Related to Emergency Construction, also Impacting Area Water Pressure and Service
PRINCE RUPERT, AUGUST 3rd, 2023 – At the direction of Northern Health, the City is issuing a precautionary Boil Water Notice due to emergency construction on water main breaks on Frederick Street that may impact water quality and continuity of service. The Boil Notice is not due to current test results, but is in place as a precaution due to potential construction impacts that are currently unknown.
In addition to the precautionary Boil Water Notice, residents east of the 6th Ave bridge and Drydock road will have significantly reduced water pressure tonight following construction starting at 9 pm, including and up to the possibility of loss of water.
The Frederick Street water breaks are of particular concern and may have broader impacts because this is a major water artery connecting to the surrounding area. With the Crestview supply line currently out of commission during construction, the Frederick line is the main connection of water to the area noted in the map on the following page.
Currently, the full condition of this section of pipe is unknown, and crews ability to full restore water service will depend on pipe condition in that area. If the pipe condition is compromised, and repairs cannot be made immediately, there may be more substantial disruptions to service.
City crews will be attempting to complete this work overnight in order to minimize disruptions during waking hours for the majority of residents. Our staff are currently working around the clock to restore normal levels of service, and will update on the status of infrastructure in this area as soon as more information is available. The City will also notify the community as soon as the Notice is lifted via all official channels.
Currently, there are water main breaks on Fulton Street, two on Frederick Street and one on Overlook/Rushbrook. There are also 4 additional active water service breaks. Given these challenges, non-emergency service and repairs may be delayed.
These water main breaks are a result of our failing water system. We are working very hard on securing all the funding needed to replace the system so we are not faced with ongoing emergency response.
What to do in a Boil Water Notice
A Boil Water Notice means that residents and water system users must heat the water to a rapid boil for at least 1 minute then cool and place in a food grade storage container. This must be done in advance of consumption for brushing teeth, drinking and cooking, washing vegetables for consumption raw, and making ice. Use of water for bathing and washing clothes is considered safe without boiling.
Owners of public facilities are requested to post Boil Water Notices at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public, alternatively, public fountains and taps should be turned off. As opportunities arise they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Boil Water Notice. An additional resource for operating a food premise during a Boil Water Notice from Northern Health is below:
Using Water Safely during a Boil Water Notice
Operating a Food Premises during a Boil Water Notice
We also ask that residents please share this information with your neighbours.
The City has sent this notice to local media and directly to residents via our municipal app and Connect Rocket emergency alert program. If you or someone you know have not subscribed to these services, please do so at https://princerupert.connectrocket.com/.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Veronika Stewart, Manager of Communications, Engagement and Social Development
City of Prince Rupert
Office: (250) 627 0976
Cell: (778) 884 6285
Email: veronika.stewart@princerupert.ca