Boil-water advisory issued in small part of Pierce County

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Washington Water Service Company has issued a boil-water advisory today to customers of the Raft Island Water System in Pierce County.

A construction-related pipe break may have caused water contamination. Water samples collected after the break showed potentially harmful E. coli bacteria present in the water. E. coli can cause gastrointestinal illness.

The Department of Health recommends that residents boil tap water that would be used for drinking, brushing teeth, making food, or washing dishes. Water should be boiled for one minute and then cooled before use.

This water system serves about 520 people in Carr Inlet, west of Gig Harbor in Pierce County.

The advisory will remain in effect until the water meets safe drinking water standards. Customers with questions about their water quality can call Washington Water Service at 253-851-4060 or toll free at 877-408-4060.

KIRO