HAGERSTOWN, Md. – Customers served by the Fort Ritchie Water System are advised to boil water as a precaution, due to a waterline break, the Washington County Department of Water Quality announced.
It is recommended that customers boil all water used for food preparation, teeth brushing, ice making and drinking until further notice. Customers are advised to bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute, which is enough to ensure the water is safe for consumption. After boiling, they should remember to let the water cool before use. Ice which has been made earlier should not be consumed or used for drinking. The water may be used for bathing and washing without boiling.
The Department of Water Quality, Washington Health Department and the Maryland Department of the Environment are monitoring the water system and will lift or revise this advisory as necessary. The advisory is a precautionary measure and will be lifted after water service and quality are fully restored and water quality tests verify the safety of the water supply. The waterline is expected to be restored by Thursday evening.
For more information, residents should call the Washington County Department of Water Quality office at 240-313-2600, or the Washington County Health Department at 240-313-3400.
