Boil Water Advisory Remains in Effect for Some L. Saucon Residents

A boil water advisory issued by the City of Bethlehem remains in effect until further notice for some residents of Upper Saucon Township and western Lower Saucon Township, according to a message posted on the city's website.

The boil water advisory was issued Sunday, after a 12-inch water main break on Old Bethlehem Pike in Upper Saucon Township led to a loss of water pressure, the city announced Monday.

"A loss of positive water pressure is a signal of the existence of conditions that could allow contamination to enter the distribution system through backflow by back pressure or back siphonage," the notice said. "As a result, there is an increased chance that the water may contain disease causing organisms."

"These organisms include bacteria, viruses and parasites which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches," it added.

The city is advising its customers affected by the water main break to bring all drinking water to a boil for at least one minute and let it cool before using it.

Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation until further notice.

For more information about the situation, Bethlehem water customers should contact the city's Water Control Department at 610-865-7077.

The city said it will issue an announcement when tests show no bacteria and the boil water advisory is lifted.

Additional information about the areas affected—including a map—is also posted on the Lower Saucon Authority website.

Map credit: Lower Saucon Authority