The City of Battle Creek announced on Apr. 24 a boil water advisory affecting several areas due to a temporary shutdown of part of the water system for improvements or repairs.
This advisory is important because when water pressure drops below a certain level during maintenance, there is an increased risk that bacteria could enter the system. While these bacteria are generally not harmful and are common in the environment, boiling water before use is recommended as a safeguard.
The affected locations include Post Avenue between Inn Road and Caine Street; Caine Street between Post Avenue and Kingman Avenue E.; Post Avenue between Illinois Avenue and Nelson Street; Nelson Street between Post Avenue and Kingman Avenue E.; and Euclid Avenue between Post Avenue and Kingman Avenue E. Residents in these areas are advised to bring all tap water to a boil for one minute, let it cool, and use it for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, or preparing food until further notice. Bottled water may also be used as an alternative.
According to city officials, “The city has issued this advisory as a precaution. Such a precaution is recommended when we must reduce water pressure in the system.” The Department of Public Works stated that they are working quickly to restore normal pressure after completing improvement or repair work. Additional steps include flushing hydrants or systems and collecting bacteriological samples from around the affected area to ensure that state drinking water standards are met.
Updates will be provided through local news media outlets and posted on the City’s website Alert Center once tests confirm no bacteria remain in the system. Residents with questions can contact the Department of Public Works at 269-966-3493 or refer to general guidelines available from the Environmental Protection Agency Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.
Community members are encouraged to share this information with others who may not have received direct notification—such as those living in apartments, nursing homes, schools, or businesses—by posting notices publicly or distributing copies by hand or mail.
