Attention, residents of Colonie! A boil water advisory is currently in effect for both the Town and Village of Colonie. This important notice comes after a significant incident that might affect your drinking water safety.
On Monday morning, around 8 a.m., local leaders reported a serious issue: a 24-inch water transmission main burst near 31 British American Boulevard. As a result of this break, water pressure across the area was compromised, raising concerns about the quality of the water supply.
Why does this matter? When water pressure drops unexpectedly, harmful microorganisms can infiltrate the water system, posing health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. These microbes can lead to unpleasant symptoms including diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and headaches.
In light of this situation, officials are strongly advising all residents to take immediate precautions. You should boil your tap water vigorously for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, or even brushing your teeth. If you prefer, you can also use bottled water that has been certified for sale by the New York State Department of Health.
This precautionary boil water advisory is expected to remain in place for roughly two days, while repairs are made to the broken main and the water system undergoes thorough testing to ensure safety.
It's worth noting that the nearby community of Menands is not affected by this advisory, so residents there can continue to use their water without the same concerns.
If you have any questions or need further information regarding this advisory, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Latham Water District at (518) 783-2750, or contact the Albany County Department of Health at (518) 447-4620. Stay safe and informed—your health is important!
