Precautionary boil water advisory issued for 81 homes in South Salem

A limited-area notice for residents to boil water before drinking it was issued to 81 homes in the Croisan Mountain Area in South Salem Dec. 14. The water in all other areas of the City of Salem is safe to drink and use.

At about 8 p.m. Dec. 14, the affected homes experienced a brief interruption of water pressure when a communication failure occurred at the Upper Croisan Mountain Pump Station. This caused a pressure loss at the affected homes in the area.

Those affected have been directed to bring water to a rolling boil for one full minute, allow the water to cool before using and store the cooled water in a clean container with a cover. Affected residents should use boiled water that has cooled or bottled water for:

• Drinking
• Brushing teeth
• Washing fruits and vegetables
• Preparing food and baby formula
• Making ice
• Cleaning food contact surfaces
  
  

City Water Distribution staff will be flushing water mains in the affected area and collecting bacteriological samples. Sample results are expected by Dec. 16. Residents will receive information regarding test results by a door hanger delivered by City of Salem staff.

No other areas of the Salem water system were affected by the pressure interruption.

Oregon Health Authority rules require a Boil Water Notice be issued as a precautionary measure if system pressure is lost. This notice will be in effect until water within the affected area is verified safe by bacteriological testing.

For more information on the City's drinking water, see our Drinking Water page. View Boil Water Advisories on our Boil Water Advisories page. If you are ever unsure about your water, call Public Works Dispatch at any time at 503-588-6311.