Florence boil order lifted

A boil advisory for Florence’s water supply was lifted Friday morning after laboratory tests indicated no bacteriological contamination after a water main break Tuesday.

The break Tuesday caused enough pressure loss that Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued the boil water advisory for Florence.

Mayor Bob Gayle said the break happened near 10th and Marion Sts.

“By the time we got it dug up and got it done, we’d lost pressure up on the hill,” Gayle said.

Water pressure fell below 20 pounds per square inch, meaning bacteria could build in the water.

Gayle said the break was caused by age of the line and shifting ground.

The boil advisory was lifted after the water tower and well that supply water to the tower were refilled, hydrants around town were flushed, and samples were sent to KDHE.

During the boil advisory, customers were urged to:

• Use bottled water or boil tap water for one minute before drinking it or using it in food preparation.
• Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household icemaker.
• If tap water appears dirty, flush lines by letting water run until it clears.
• Disinfect dishes and other surfaces that contact food by immersing them for at least a minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon.
• Water used for bathing generally does not need to be boiled. Children bathing should be supervised so they do not ingest water. People with cuts or severe rashes should consult a physician.

Only KDHE can rescind a boil order and only after testing at a certified laboratory.