The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil-water advisory for Overbrook in northeast Osage County after a recent water-main break.

According to the KDHE, the break caused the water tower to drain, resulting in a loss of pressure in the city’s distribution system.

The city is trying to isolate the leak and restore pressure. During repairs, Overbrook customers may be without water for an extended period of time.

Whenever pressure loss occurs, it is possible for contaminants to enter the system, and chlorine levels are inadequate to protect against bacterial contamination.

When water service returns, Overbrook residents should boil water vigorously for one minute before use.

Other precautions include:

• Use only boiled water for drinking, brushing teeth, diluting fruit juices and all food preparation.

• Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker. Remake ice cubes with water that has been boiled.

• Disinfect dishes and other food-contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.

• Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing or using backyard pools so water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.