Montville Township Issues Urgent Boil Water Advisory After Major Water Main Break

Residents Urged to Boil Water Following Significant Water System Disruption on Cheryl Road

In an immediate response to a significant water main break caused by contractor activities on Cheryl Road, Montville Township has announced a system-wide Boil Water Advisory (BWA). The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) mandated the advisory as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the township's water supply. The disruption, affecting all areas serviced by the Montville Township Water Department, including Montville, Towaco, and Pine Brook, has led to a considerable loss of water pressure and potential quality concerns.

The advisory comes after a contractor, installing new water lines, accidentally damaged a main water conduit, prompting widespread effects on the water distribution system. This event has compromised the quality of water, necessitating a boil water notice for all residents within the service area, effective immediately and until further notice.

Advisory Details and Recommendations for Residents

Residents are advised to boil tap water for one minute and let it cool before use, or to use bottled water for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and other daily activities. This measure is essential for killing bacteria and other organisms present in the water. The Montville Township Water Department has also issued specific recommendations to ensure public health and safety during this period, including the disposal of uncooked foods prepared with tap water, using boiled or bottled water for pets, and avoiding the ingestion of water during bathing or showering.

The Boil Water Advisory affects all parts of Montville Township's water system due to its unified infrastructure. The severity of the break necessitated a township-wide notification, with the NJDEP overseeing the response to this crisis. Residents who rely on well water are not impacted by this advisory.

Timeline for Resolution and Further Information

The earliest the Boil Water Advisory could be lifted is mid-day Saturday, March 16, pending NJDEP approval following water quality testing. Montville Township and the NJDEP are working diligently to restore water quality and lift the advisory as quickly as possible. Updates on the situation will be communicated through Nixle alerts, the township's website, and social media platforms.

Residents with questions or concerns regarding the Boil Water Advisory are encouraged to contact the Water Department, under the direction of David Kirkham, at (973) 331-3330, or visit the Montville Township website for further updates.

This incident highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols during infrastructure projects and the swift implementation of precautionary measures to protect public health. Montville Township appreciates the community's patience and cooperation during this critical time as it works to ensure the safety and quality of its water supply.