URGENT UPDATE: A boil water advisory has been issued for the City of Liebenthal, Kansas, affecting the public water supply system in Rush County. This advisory, announced by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), is crucial for residents to understand as it impacts their health and safety.
Residents are advised to take immediate precautions:
– Boil tap water for at least one minute before drinking or using for food preparation. Alternatively, use bottled water.
– Dispose of ice cubes and avoid using ice from household automatic icemakers.
– If tap water appears discolored, flush the water lines until the water runs clear.
– Disinfect dishes and food contact surfaces by immersion in a solution of one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of clean tap water for at least one minute.
While bathing, children should be supervised to prevent water ingestion, but water used for bathing does not typically need to be boiled. Those with cuts or severe rashes are advised to consult their physicians prior to using tap water.
The advisory took effect on January 12, 2023, and will remain in force until KDHE confirms the resolution of conditions that compromised the water system. The advisory was prompted by an equipment failure that hindered the city’s ability to maintain the necessary chlorine residual levels, increasing the risk of bacterial contamination.
Only KDHE can lift the advisory after conducting tests at a certified laboratory. For any consumer questions, residents can contact the Liebenthal water system at 785-222-6122 or KDHE at 785-296-5514. Further information is available on the KDHE PWS Consumer Information webpage: https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service.
Restaurants and food establishments seeking guidance regarding the boil water advisory should reach out to the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety & lodging program at [email protected] or call 785-564-6767.
Residents must remain vigilant and adhere to these guidelines until further notice to ensure their health and safety. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
