Boil order issued in Teton County, Wyoming
A break in the water main on Highway 89 this Tuesday morning led to a lack of water to the residents and businesses in Rafter J, Adam’s Canyon and South Park Service Center.
Currently, Rafter J Improvement and Service District is working to repair the leak to the water main to restore water to this area. Teton County Public Health through the authority of the Teton County Health Officer, Dr. Travis Riddell has issued a boil water order for the residents and businesses in this affected area.
The decision to issue a boil water order was based on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. The EPA states that when water pressure drops to less than 20 pounds per square inch (psi), there is a higher potential for the introduction of contaminants through joints in the water system. These contaminants can be fecal matter or other disease-causing organisms that may pose a health threat to the individuals, especially infants, young children, elderly, or people with severely compromised immune systems.
Residents and business in the affected area may use bottled water or must boil the water at a rolling boil for 3 minutes and let cool before using. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, washing hands, and food preparation. Dr. Travis Riddell states, “This boil water order was issued to protect the health of the residents in Rafter J and the residents/businesses east of Highway 26/89 between Adam’s Canyon and South Park Service Center.” If residents or businesses have questions they can contact Teton County Public Health’s Environmental Health Supervisor, Mike Dart, at (307) 413-5184.
Teton County Public Health and the EPA are working together to determine the length of time the water boil order must be in effect. Residents and businesses in the affected area should expect to be on the boil water order until lab results ensure the water is free of contaminants and safe to drink.
More information will be shared when new information is available and when the boil water order can be lifted.
