Butler Boil Water Advisory Issued After Water Main Break: What To Know

BUTLER, NJ — A water main break prompted borough officials to issue a limited boil water advisory Thursday morning for affected customers.

The Butler Water Department said the break occurred at Boonton Avenue and Elm Street, leaving customers without water or experiencing significant pressure loss.

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Customers affected by the water main break should bring tap water to a rolling boil for one minute and allow it to cool before use, or use bottled water until further notice.

Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, preparing food, mixing baby formula, washing fruits and vegetables, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth and washing dishes. Boiling helps kill bacteria and other organisms that may be present in the water.

The Butler Water Department also recommends discarding any uncooked food, beverages or ice cubes made with tap water on the day the advisory was issued. Boiled water should be stored in the refrigerator for drinking, and residents should avoid swallowing water while showering or bathing.

For washing dishes by hand, residents should rinse them with a diluted bleach solution containing one tablespoon of household bleach per gallon of tap water. Alternatively, dishes can be cleaned in a dishwasher using both the hot wash and dry cycles.

Residents should not rely on home water filtration devices instead of boiling or using bottled water, as most filters do not provide adequate protection against microorganisms. Only bottled water should be used to treat minor injuries, and pets should be given drinking water that has been boiled and allowed to cool.

The advisory will remain in effect until repairs are completed and testing confirms the water is safe.

"We are working as quickly as possible to restore your water quality. Thank you for your patience," the department said.

Residents can call the Butler Water Department at 973-838-7200 for updates.

Have a correction or news tip? Email dani.sepe@patch.com.