Hallstahammar residents told to boil drinking water

Residents in Hallstahammar north of the E18 and in Eriksberg should boil tap water before drinking it, cooking with it or brushing their teeth after tests detected coliform bacteria in the supply.

Water operator Mälarenergi issued the precaution while it investigates the cause. Coliform bacteria can indicate a problem with the water supply, although their presence does not necessarily mean the water contains harmful organisms.

Bring water to a vigorous boil in a saucepan or kettle, then let it cool in a clean container. Use boiled water for drinks, ice, rinsing uncooked fruit and vegetables, and toothbrushing. An ordinary coffee maker does not heat water sufficiently.

Water can still be used for handwashing, showering, laundry and flushing toilets. Keep small children from swallowing it in the shower. For dishwashers, use the hottest programme and drying cycle.

The operator requires three consecutive satisfactory samples before lifting the recommendation. It estimates this could take about a week, provided no continuing leak or similar problem is found. Residents should follow the operator’s updates until the restriction is explicitly lifted.

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