SOLDIER – The city of Soldier in western Iowa’s Monona County issued a boil advisory Tuesday after a hole in a well pipe drained the city’s entire water tower. The hole in the pipe was repaired and the system was up and running by midnight. However, the loss of water pressure has the potential to allow bacteria to enter the water system. The boil advisory will remain in place until two sets of water samples are tested clean for bacteria.

Due to the potential for bacterial contamination, the city and DNR recommend boiling water for drinking and cooking, or using bottled water or another alternative source until the advisory is lifted. All residents of Soldier should bring water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using. Use boiled or bottled water for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth and food preparation. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms which could be in the water. The water may be used for bathing and similar purposes.

General guidelines on reducing the risk of infection are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1(800) 426-4791.