By WPRO News
The Rhode Island Department of Health said Friday afternoon that 38,000 customers across five public water systems serving parts of Narragansett and South Kingstown are under a boil water advisory due to E. Coli being found in the supply. The systems and points of contact for customers with questions are:
- Suez Water (customers with questions should contact Chris Jacobs at 401-316-2201)
- Narragansett – Point Judith (customers with questions should contact the Police Department at 401-789-1091 or John Soetbeer at 401-265-3515)
- Narragansett – North End (customers with questions should contact the Police Department at 401-789-1091 or John Soetbeer at 401-265-3515)
- South Kingstown – South Shore (customers with questions should contact the Police Department at 401-783-3321)
- South Kingstown – Middlebridge (customers with questions should contact the Police Department at 401-783-3321
Those who are unsure who their water provider is can check their water bills to find out.
RIDOH also released a map and list of affected areas. It says customers are advised to vigorously boil all water used for consumption for one minute.
These recommendations apply to water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation. RIDOH recommends being careful not to swallow the water when showering or bathing, as well as not bathing small children in the water as they may accidentally swallow it.
RIDOH spokesperson Joseph Wendelken said it will be at least three days before the water can be used regularly again, and RIDOH will issue another advisory when the water is safe. He said symptoms of sickness from E Coli can feel like the flu, and anyone who feels them should see a doctor.
