Do-not-drink order issued for D.C. neighborhood

UPDATE: December 18, 2014 5:46 pm WASHINGTON – DC WATER says that tests have confirmed the presence of petroleum in water in the Shaw neighborhood area. The water utility was distributing safe water to customers while the do-not-drink order remained in affect Thursday. The water distribution buggy was located at O Street between 6th and 7th Streets NW. Residents must bring their own containers. EARLIER: December 17, 2014 3:44 pm WASHINGTON – DC Water is warning customers in the Shaw and upper Logan Circle area not to drink the water.

The water utility has received reports of a petroleum smell in the area’s water. Anyone who notices a petroleum smell in their tap water should not drink the water nor bath or shower in it.

Customers in the area should use bottled water for drinking and cooking until tests confirm that the water is safe.

The do-not-drink order was issued at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday.

The area in blue is affected by the do-not-drink order.

The affected area is borded by:
South – Q Street NW and Rhode Island Avenue NW
East – 8th Street NW
West – 13th Street NW
North – S Street NW between 9th and 13th Streets NW and T Street NW between 7th and 9th streets

But customers who live outside of the affected area should also not drink the water if they notice a petroleum-like smell.

Customers should not use water for:

  • Drinking
  • Preparing and cooking food
  • Washing fruits and vegetables
  • Preparing infant formula
  • Brushing teeth
  • Making ice
  • Giving water to pets
  • Taking showers and baths

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