Precautionary Boil Water Notice Remains in Effect Until Test Results Confirm it can be lifted
PRINCE RUPERT, AUGUST 4th, 2023 – Following work that ran from 9 pm – 6 am overnight on the Frederick Street water main breaks last night, crews have been able to complete one permanent and one temporary repair to restore the water pressure and maintain service to the area. The precautionary Boil Water Notice issued yesterday afternoon at Northern Health’s direction will remain in effect until the City has received water quality test results showing that construction did not impact water quality. Given turnaround times for testing, the Notice is likely to remain in place over the weekend. The City will notify the community as soon as the Boil Water Notice is lifted via all official channels.
Due to the condition of the existing pipe and the temporary state of one of the repairs, Frederick Street will remain closed, and access to the pipe will remain open while staff determine the next steps for rehabilitation.
Every effort is being made to prevent future potential disruptions to water service in this area and implement a permanent fix, as this watermain is a supply main to over 1000 surrounding homes. As previously noted, these water main breaks are a result of our failing water system, and 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