grand prairie water supply City officials in Grand Prairie, Texas, have issued an urgent advisory for residents living north of Interstate 20 due to contamination in the city’s water supply. The advisory, announced on Tuesday, warns that a foaming agent has been detected in the water, making it unsafe for drinking, cooking, or any other uses beyond flushing.
What Happened?
The contamination was discovered on Tuesday, prompting immediate action from city officials. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has mandated that the City of Grand Prairie notify residents to avoid using tap water for consumption. The source of the foaming agent remains under investigation, and crews have been working diligently to address the issue since early Wednesday morning.
What Should Residents Do?
Residents in the affected area should adhere to the following guidelines:
- Do Not Drink Tap Water: This includes using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or making beverages and ice.
- Avoid Using Tap Water for Pets: Do not give tap water to animals.
- No Dishwashing: Refrain from using tap water for washing dishes or utensils.
The city has emphasized that traditional methods of treating the water, such as boiling, filtering, or adding disinfectants, will not make the water safe. Residents should not attempt to treat the water themselves.
Water Distribution and School Closures
To assist residents, the city is distributing bottled water at Lone Star Park, located at 1000 Lone Star Parkway, while supplies last. Long lines of cars were reported as residents flocked to collect their water on Wednesday morning.
In response to the water issue, the Grand Prairie Independent School District has closed its schools for the day and plans to reopen on Thursday. City-operated parks have also been shut down as a precaution.
Community Response and Safety Measures
The city has provided a map of the affected area and has been actively updating residents through social media and its website. A city spokesperson urged residents to monitor these channels for the latest information and follow all provided guidelines until the situation is resolved.
Residents are also encouraged to check on their neighbors, especially those who might have difficulty accessing information or getting out of their homes. Additionally, pet owners are advised to use bottled water for their animals.
Conclusion
The situation in Grand Prairie highlights the critical importance of responding quickly to water contamination issues. Residents north of Interstate 20 are advised to follow the city’s guidelines closely to ensure their safety and well-being. The city’s swift response and ongoing communication aim to resolve the issue and restore safe water use as soon as possible.
