Boil water notice issued

BIG STONE GAP — The town issued a boil advisory Wednesday afternoon for its water customers.

The advisory states that “failure to follow this advisory could result in stomach or intestinal illness.”

The Virginia Department of Health, in conjunction with the Wise County Health Department and the town, advises residents to use boiled tap water or bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes as a safety precaution.

This precaution is necessary because of a 10-inch water main break on the 700 block of Wood Avenue.

The advisory states that boiling tap water for one minute kills bacteria and other organisms.

An alternative method for residents who do not have gas or electricity available is to use liquid household bleach to disinfect water. The bleach product should be recently purchased, free of additives and scents and should contain a hypochlorite solution of at least 5.25 percent. Public health officials recommend adding eight drops of bleach (about 1/4 teaspoon) to each gallon of water. The water should be stirred and allowed to stand for at least 30 minutes before use. Water purification tablets may also be used following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Potable water also is available by contacting the public works department.

Customers will be informed when the boil advisory is lifted. The water main is being replaced. It is anticipated that the problem will be resolved within 24 hours.

For more information, contact Gary Hampton at 276/524-1053.