The Chautauqua County Health Department is asking Sinclairville residents to conserve water and boil all water for drinking and cooking.
On Tuesday, a major leak developed in one of the water mains feeding the village, causing a drop in pressure and partial loss of water in the village's water system. When the distribution pipes and mains lose pressure it increases the chance that untreated water and harmful microbes could enter the system.
Village water must be boiled before people drink it. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water certified for sale by the state Department of Health. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.
The village is working to repair the water main break. Sinclairville residents will be informed when the leak has been fixed and tests confirm no harmful bacteria are in the system. It is anticipated that the leaks will be repaired within 24 hours, but it will take more time for the water system to be restored.
For more information, call Kenneth France, Sinclairville mayor, at 962-9455 or the Chautauqua County Health Department at 866-604-6789.