The City of Cape Girardeau has issued a Precautionary Boil Water Advisory in response to a low-pressure incident yesterday. This advisory covers large parts of main campus until further notice. This order also covers some nearby homes and businesses.

Dining facilities in Towers and Subway are still open, however Starbucks is closed. Fountain and ice machines on campus should not be used. Bottled water and beverages are available.

The Precautionary Boil Water Advisory means that you should not drink, brush your teeth, cook, or wash fruits and vegetables using water that comes out of the tap. You should use bottled water or water that has been boiled and cooled for those activities. Advisory means there is no known problem with the water, but the boil order was issued in abundance of caution.

To find out the areas affected by the Boil Water Advisory, visit the information webpage set up by the city, which has an interactive map and FAQ:

www.cityofcapegirardeau.org/news/whats_new/campus_area_water_boil_advisory

SAFETY PROCEDURES

Hand washing It is recommended that bottled water or water boiled for 3-5 minutes (and cooled) should be used for hand washing. When this is not practical, it is recommended that if tap water must be used to wash and rinse, it should be followed up with the use of hand sanitizer. Consuming unsafe water is the most likely way to become ill. Using extra precautions with hand washing ensures that hands are clean for eating.

Dish washing Used bottled water or water that has been boiled for 3-5 minutes and cooled to wash and rinse dishes. Home dishwashers cannot be assured to completely kill organisms that may be in the water.

Bathing Yes, it is safe to shower or bathe in the water. The primary concern is that the water is not consumed. Instruct children not to put the water in their mouth when they are bathing. When bathing infants, extra precaution should be taken its recommended using bottled water or water that has been boiled for 3-5 minutes and cooled for use.

Clothes Washing Yes, you may continue to use the water to wash clothes. The major concern is consuming the water.

RESOURCES

UNIVERSITY FACILITIES INFORMATION: semo.edu/closings

UNIVERSITY POLICE: 573.651.2215 / 573.651.2595 (anonymous tip-line)