State Officials Ask People In Ruidoso To Boil Their Water

Santa Fe – The New Mexico Environment Department’s Drinking Water Bureau has advised the Village of Ruidoso Water System to issue a boil water advisory for its consumers.

Consumers of the water in the Village of Ruidoso are advised to boil tap water for five minutes before drinking, cooking, and dishwashing. Water main breaks have the potential to allow bacterial contaminants to enter the water system.

Microbiological contaminants in the water may cause disease. Disease symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches and fatigue. These symptoms, however, are not just associated with disease causing organisms in drinking water.

People at increased risk, such as infants, young children, and people with severely compromised immune systems, should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers or use bottled water.

The Village of Ruidoso Water System serves approximately 10,000 customers in Lincoln County. The water system was put on a precautionary “boil water advisory” today due to flooding in the area that has damaged the water system.

A dozen members of the department are in the flood areas and will offer free water testing for area residents, assist with Food Program and monitor the wastewater treatment plant”, said New Mexico Environment Department Secretary Ron Curry.