The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) today received a positive test result for total coliform bacteria in the water system at URI. Therefore, the boil water advisory for the entire campus will remain in effect through at least Tuesday, October 28. This advisory does not impact water systems of the surrounding communities.
HEALTH recommends all water be boiled for one minute and allowed to cool before using. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water. Bottled water can also be used. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth or food preparation. Students can use water for showering or bathing unless they have an open wound. Any questions about showering or bathing with this water should be directed to your healthcare provider.
URI continues to work with HEALTH on a solution to this issue.
The advisory will be lifted when there are negative water test results for three consecutive days. Daily testing is done at multiple points in the URI water system, and results take 24-48 hours to obtain.
Any further updates on the boil water advisory will be posted on HEALTH’s website at www.health.ri.gov or are available by calling HEALTH’s Information Line at 1-800-942-7434, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.