(10/26/06) BAYVILLE - Village of Bayville officials warned residents Thursday not to drink the tap water until further notice.

Bayville water officials believe the water tower became contaminated with the bacteria coliform. Reverse 911 calls informed people of the boil water advisory, but some residents say they found out too late. Water officials maintain there is no need for panic if water was consumed, but to use either bottled or boiled water until told otherwise. They say it is safe to bathe or shower in the water.

The water tower in question, as well as the entire water system, will be flushed out. Chlorine will also be used for decontamination. Tests for the bacteria will take about two days, meaning Bayville homes will need to boil their water until at least Saturday. A boil water advisory was in effect in 2000 when the same water tower contained the bacteria.

Related Information:Public Notice Release Nassau County Health DepartmentNassau County Health Department - (516) 571-2500