Several steps to be taken before water supply can be deemed safe for McKeesport's Lower 10th Ward residents

Another round of flushing and testing is needed before the Municipal Authority of Westmoreland County can deem the water supply safe for residents of McKeesport’s Lower 10th Ward, officials said Monday afternoon.

Residents in the ward have been without water since early Saturday morning when officials became concerned firefighting foam was sucked into a fire hydrant as crews battled a blaze at McKeesport Auto Body Friday night. The foam contains synthetic chemicals and glycol, which can be a serious health concern when found in water.

Since the possible contamination was reported, officials with the municipal authority have collected water samples and flushed the affected area. Collected samples were sent to a certified lab that will test for components of firefighting foam. Results will not be available until Tuesday or Wednesday.

Regardless of the results, however, another round of flushing and testing is necessary before the water is deemed safe for all uses.

Officials on Sunday night said residents in the ward could be without water for at least a week.

As the advisory remains in place, residents should not boil, freeze or filter the water because it will not reduce the level of chemicals that may be present.

Residents are encouraged to use bottled water for drinking, bathing, hand washing, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, cooking or preparing food until further notice.

Officials on Monday opened showers to impacted residents at McKeesport Area High School between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. Those using the showers are asked to use the right hand entrance to South Hall, near the gymnasium.

Water buffaloes are located at both ends of Atlantic Avenue, at the sewage plant and at R & W Oil. A new water buffalo site was added at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Perry Street. Bottled water is available at McKeesport Fire Department Station 1, located at 201 Lysle Blvd.

Officials with the municipal authority said updates will be provided as to the next steps.