As if mandatory filters on their faucets weren’t bad enough, Flint residents experience more misfortune with a recent boil water advisory. The advisory was issued after a water main break on Tuesday. The main break caused water pressure to go down which may have allowed bacterial contaminants into the system.
And while the city says this is just a precautionary measure and insists, “bacteria are generally not harmful and are common throughout our environment,” residents are forced to boil their water before use. The advisory will be lifted once water sampling determines water is safe to drink.
This setback came not long after mayor Karen Weaver reported she needed $55 million to remove the lead pipes and ensure safe drinking water for Flint residents. So far, the proposal is still under review, but officials say $37 million dollars of it has already been approved.
Officials have also noticed another problem: water damage is now showing up in the city fire equipment. According to an article by CNN, one pump has already been replaced due to severe rust, costing the city $65,000 dollars in repairs.
Fire trucks are also showing signs of corrosion and rapid rusting, due to the contaminated water.
Because of those problems, the fire department is worried the water could be destroying the fire suppression systems around the city. Water sprinkler companies are now being told to inspect their systems in both homes and businesses.
To donate to Flint, and help with their worsening conditions, please head here http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/13/us/iyw-flint-michigan-water-crisis-how-to-help/ to see a list of ways to assist.
