Prince George’s County Residents Warned About Boiled Water Advisory

Prince George’s County Under Boil Water Advisory Following Major Water Main Break

Hyattsville, MD – Residents in several Prince George’s County communities are advised to boil their water for consumption following a meaningful water main break.WSSC Water has issued a boil water advisory for areas including Cheverly, Seat Pleasant, Capitol heights, and surrounding neighborhoods.

The disruption stems from a ruptured 16-inch water main discovered near the Cheverly Metro Station in Hyattsville. Crews are on-site and preparing for repairs, which will commence once the water flow is successfully shut off.

Essential Precautions for Affected Residents

Until further notice, all water used for drinking, brushing teeth, preparing food, making ice, and for pets must be boiled. The water should be brought to a rolling boil for one full minute and then allowed to cool before use.

WSSC Water is actively working to establish a water distribution site to provide bottled water to those impacted by the advisory. Updates on the repair progress and restoration of service will be provided as thay become available.

For the latest details and updates, please visit the WSSC Water website.

Understanding Boil Water Advisories

Boil water advisories are critical public health measures implemented when water quality may be compromised. Contamination can occur through various means,including breaks in water mains,loss of pressure,or issues at treatment facilities.

Following these advisories diligently helps prevent the spread of waterborne illnesses like E. coli and Giardia. These pathogens can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and other health complications.

Disinfection methods,such as boiling,are effective in killing most harmful microorganisms. proper cooling of boiled water is also vital before consumption.

Water utilities work tirelessly to maintain infrastructure and ensure the safety of public water supplies. Regular maintenance and rapid response to breaks are key components of a reliable water system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are affected by the boil water advisory?

The advisory is in effect for Cheverly, Seat pleasant, Capitol Heights, and nearby communities in prince George’s County impacted by the water main break.

Why is a boil water advisory necessary?

A boil water advisory is issued when the water supply may be contaminated,posing a risk of waterborne illnesses. Boiling water kills most harmful bacteria and viruses.

How long should I boil my water?

You should bring water to a rolling boil for one full minute, then allow it to cool before use.

can I use bottled water during the advisory?

Yes, bottled water is a safe alternative for consumption and food preparation during a boil water advisory.

Will WSSC Water provide bottled water?

WSSC Water is working to establish a distribution station to hand out bottled water to affected customers. Check their website for details.

When will the boil water advisory be lifted?

The advisory will be lifted once repairs are complete and water quality testing confirms the water is safe for consumption. Updates will be provided by WSSC Water.

Have you been impacted by this water main break and boil water advisory? Share your experience and any tips you have in the comments below. Let’s help our neighbors stay informed and safe!

Share this article with your friends and family to ensure everyone in the affected areas is aware of the necessary precautions.

What specific areas of Prince George’s County are currently under the boil water advisory?

Understanding the Current Water Situation

A boil water advisory has been issued for select areas of Prince George’s County, maryland, effective immediately. this advisory impacts residents due to a confirmed disruption in the water supply, potentially leading to bacterial contamination.The Prince George’s County water and Sewer Authority (WSSC Water) is actively working to resolve the issue and restore safe drinking water.This article provides crucial data for affected residents, outlining the scope of the advisory, safety precautions, and available resources.

Affected Areas & Timeline

Currently,the boil water advisory specifically affects residents in the following areas (as of July 19,2025,12:38:46 EST – check WSSC Water’s official website for the most up-to-date list):

District Heights

Forestville (portions)

Temple Hills

Suitland (sections)

WSSC Water estimates the repair and restoration process will take approximately 24-48 hours. Regular updates will be provided via their website (https://www.wsscwater.com/), social media channels, and local news outlets. Residents are urged to monitor these sources for the latest information regarding the water quality and the lifting of the advisory.

What Does a Boil Water Advisory Mean?

A boil water advisory is issued when there’s a risk of contamination in the public water system. This contamination can stem from various factors, including:

Water main breaks

Loss of water pressure

equipment failures

Disinfection issues

The primary concern is the potential presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can cause illness. Boiling the water effectively kills these pathogens,making it safe for consumption.

Safety Precautions: How to Boil Water Properly

To ensure your water is safe to drink, follow these guidelines:

1. Bring water to a rolling boil: A vigorous, bubbling boil is essential.
2. Boil for 1 minute: Maintain the rolling boil for at least one full minute. At elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for three minutes.
3. Cool the water: Allow the water to cool wholly before using it.
4. Store boiled water: Store cooled, boiled water in clean, covered containers.

What to do with boiled water:

Drinking

Brushing teeth

Washing fruits and vegetables

Preparing baby formula

Making ice

Activities to Avoid During the Advisory

Until the boil water advisory is lifted, avoid the following:

Drinking tap water: Do not consume water directly from the tap.

Using ice made from tap water: Discard any existing ice and refrain from making new ice.

Washing dishes in the dishwasher: Unless your dishwasher has a sanitizing cycle, handwash dishes with boiled water.

Bathing infants and young children: Use boiled and cooled water for bathing.

Giving pets tap water: Provide pets with boiled and cooled water.

Alternative Water Sources

If boiling water isn’t feasible, consider these alternatives:

Bottled water: Purchase commercially bottled water.

Water from a known safe source: If you have access to a water source confirmed to be safe (e.g., a well tested regularly), use that.

WSSC Water Resources & Contact Information

WSSC Water is dedicated to providing residents with updates and assistance. Here’s how to reach them:

website: https://www.wsscwater.com/ (Check for real-time updates and affected area maps)

Emergency Operations Center: 301-206-7700

Customer Service: 301-206-7700

Twitter: @WSSC_Water (for swift updates)

* Facebook: WSSC Water (for community updates)

Understanding Water Main Breaks & Infrastructure

Prince George’s County is actively working to upgrade its aging water infrastructure.Water main breaks are unfortunately a common occurrence in older systems, contributing to disruptions like