Boil water order issued for 45,000 users in Saint John

Everyone east of the Reversing Falls in Saint John is being told to boil any water for drinking after a power outage caused a failure in the chlorination system early Monday.

Approximately 45,000 users are affected, or about 60 per cent of the customer base.

The Department of Health issued the boil order Monday.

The earliest the boil ordercan be lifted is Friday. Saint John water commissioner Brent McGovern said another one or two days is required to move compromised water through the system, then the city needs two satisfactory water tests carried out at least 24 hours apart.

"The lack of low chlorine means that there may be bacteria in the water that can cause illness in humans," states a news release from the City of Saint John. "These organisms can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems.

"Organisms in drinking water are not the only cause of the symptoms above. If you experience any of these symptoms and they persist, you may want to seek medical advice. People at increased risk should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers."

The health department instructs people to bring water to a rolling boil and let it boil for at least one minute before letting it cool andusing the water.

Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms.

The health department says it is safe for people to take showers, bathe and use swimming pools.

It is also safe to use a dishwasher and to wash dishes in hot soapy water and then air dry them.

The city said it will inform people when it is no longer necessary to boil their water.