A water main break near Maize has triggered a boil water advisory for part of Sedgwick County.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) issued the advisory for a portion of Sedgwick County Rural Water District #4's system after the break caused a loss of pressure in distribution lines, KWCH reported. The advisory took effect Sept. 9.

The affected area stretches south of Kellogg Avenue, also known as Highway 54, from Maize Road on the east to 295th Street on the west. That corridor sits in the rural water district's service area southwest of Wichita.

When water pressure drops, chlorine levels in the system can fall. That loss of chlorine residuals raises the risk of bacterial contamination, according to KDHE.

Whether the main break itself has been repaired has not been publicly confirmed.

What residents should do

KDHE advises affected customers to boil tap water for one minute before drinking it or using it for cooking. Bottled water is also an option.

The agency also directs residents to throw out existing ice cubes and stop using household automatic icemakers. If tap water looks dirty, KDHE says to let it run until it clears.

For dishes and food-contact surfaces, the state recommends soaking them for at least one minute in clean tap water mixed with one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon.

Bathing water does not need to be boiled, KDHE said, but parents should watch children closely during baths to make sure they do not swallow any water. People with cuts or severe rashes should consider consulting a doctor.

When will the advisory end?

No timeline has been set. KDHE said the advisory will remain until conditions that put the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved and the agency issues a rescind order after testing at a certified lab.

The water district itself cannot lift the advisory. Only KDHE has the authority to rescind it.

Residents with questions can reach KDHE at (877) 427-7317 or visit kdhe.ks.gov.