POCAHONTAS — Residents of Pocahontas are advised to boil the water before drinking or to use an alternative source of water.

The Pocahontas Water Supply lost pressure in the distribution system due to a significant leak on Tuesday. Due to the potential for bacterial contamination, when water service is restored it is recommended that the water be boiled before using it for drinking or cooking or that an alternative source be used.

Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water. The water may be used for bathing and other similar purposes.

For more information, please contact Eric at City Hall at 712-335-4841.

General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk of infection by microbes are available from the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800- 426-4791.

The city will fix the leak, repressurize the system and collect bacteria samples. This advisory is a precaution until bacterial sample results are available. The public will be notified when the results are available and the advisory is lifted.

The city is working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to resolve the situation.