Harrison residents, boil your water
The city of Harrison, at the southern end of Lake Coeur d'Alene, has been awarded a $771,262 low-interest drinking water construction loan.
Photo courtesy of the city of Harrison
HARRISON — Possible contamination of the drinking water in Harrison has prompted a boil water order, in effect until further notice.
During a routine check of the water distribution system on Wednesday, the city discovered “significant murky drinking water in the system,” according to an online announcement posted by the city.
Inadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms including bacteria, viruses and parasites. If contaminated water is ingested, symptoms like nausea, cramps, diarrhea and headaches may be experienced.
Residents are advised to not drink the water without first boiling it. Bottled water is available at Harrison City Hall until the advisory is lifted.
Boiling kills any bacteria or organisms in the water, making it safe to drink. City officials say boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes or food preparation. Residents may continue to use the water to wash hands with soap, as usual.
The city hasn't experienced a drop in water pressure below 20 pounds per square inch. A drop in or loss of water pressure can create conditions that allow contamination to enter the water distribution system via backflow, backpressure or back-siphonage. If that occurs, there's an increased chance that drinking water may contain disease-causing organisms.
The city is monitoring the situation and will announce when the order is lifted. Updates will be posted online at cityofharrisonid.com. Contact Harrison City Hall at (208) 689-3212 or (208) 689-3210 for more information.
City officials request that residents share this information with those who may not have received notice directly.