Water Distribution Continues For Berkeley Township MUA Customers

BERKELEY, NJ — UPDATE: Families who are serviced by the Berkeley Township Municipal Utilities Authority can pick up six gallons of water at H&M Potter School on Thursday and Friday from 1 to 8 p.m. Residents must bring identification.

Water distribution will extend beyond Friday if the advisory continues. Families can return to pick up water as needed.

Residents serviced by the BTMUA are being urged to boil their water after E. coli bacteria was found in a sample, officials said Monday.

Residents who are serviced by Suez, Aqua, Shore Water or New Jersey American Water are not affected.

Water distribution will continue Wednesday at the H&M Potter School on Veeder Lane starting at 1 p.m. Residents should bring ID.

A sample taken from the distribution system on July 14 tested positive for E. coli, the BTMUA said Monday. On July 16, three repeat samples were taken. Two tested negative for total coliform and E. coli, and one tested positive for total coliform and negative for E. coli.

"These bacteria can make you sick and are especially a concern for people with weakened immune systems," BTMUA officials said.

The BTMUA is conducting a comprehensive assessment of the water system, and the monitoring and operational practices to identify and correct the cause of the contamination.

Officials expect the contamination to be resolved within 30 days. Impacted residents will be notified by the BTMUA.

Residents serviced by the BTMUA should bring tap water to a rolling boil for one minute and allow the tap water to cool before using. This kills bacteria and other organisms in the water, officials said.

Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, food preparation and for pets until further notice.

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