(01/09/06) UNIONDALE ? A tap water restriction is in effect for the Uniondale Water District following a large water main break Monday.

Uniondale officials say the break is one of the largest they have ever seen. The incident affected approximately 5,500 households, leaving many people with brown water or no water at all. Officials do not know what caused the massive rupture.

Town of Hempstead officials are asking residents not to use tap water for drinking, food preparation, dish cleaning or for brushing their teeth. Officials say the restriction is a precautionary measure until water test results can be reviewed. Once water is restored to the area, officials say residents should run their taps for approximately 10 minutes before the water is used.

Residents with questions can call the Town of Hempstead Water Department at (516) 794-8300.