Arrow-right Camera
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Republic residents must boil water

The Spokesman-Review
The City of Republic is advising residents to boil their drinking water because routine testing this week detected E. coli in the water, according to a news release. The city’s water system serves about 1,400 people. The state Department of Health’s Office of Drinking Water is working closely with the city to find the source of contamination and to fix the problem. The city experienced a similar problem about a year ago. “We’re on top of this, and we’re working with the state to figure out how bacteria are getting into the water,” said Public Works Director Casey Giddings. “Until we can resolve this, we’re asking residents to boil their tap water.” The Department of Health advises Republic residents to use boiled water or purchased bottled water for drinking, brushing teeth, dishwashing, preparing food, and making ice. Water should be boiled briskly for 1 minute and allowed to cool before use. The health advisory will remain in effect until the city and the Department of Health are confident there is no longer a threat to the system’s customers. It’s likely to remain in effect at least until early next week. Customers who have questions can call the city at 509-775-3216.