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Residents along a section of Gifford Road in Schenectady will need to continue boiling their water following a water main break that occurred Tuesday (January 27).
The advisory affects addresses from 311 to 520 Gifford Road, including Woodlawn Elementary School, according to the Schenectady County Department of Environmental Health. The break happened near the intersection of Wells Avenue and Gifford Road.
Health officials warn that harmful bacteria could potentially enter the water supply during repairs, causing symptoms like stomach issues and headaches, particularly in at-risk populations. Residents are instructed to boil all water for one minute, allow it to cool before use, or use New York State Department of Health-certified bottled water.
"Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice," officials stated in their advisory.
The water main break forced Woodlawn Elementary School to close on Tuesday, though school officials confirmed that classes resumed on Wednesday.
Repairs are currently underway, and authorities expect the issue to be resolved within a few days. Residents will be notified when testing confirms the water is safe to consume without boiling.
For more information, residents can contact the City of Schenectady Water Department at 518-382-5023 or Schenectady County Public Health Services at 518-386-2818.