NATCHEZ — Natchez Water Works issued Friday a precautionary boil-water notice affecting 182 residences and businesses in the area of John R. Junkin Drive.

Water Works Superintendent Tony Moon said an 8-inch water main broke Thursday night, causing the system to lose pressure.

When a distribution system loses pressure, contaminants can siphon back into the water. Public health officials consider any system that loses pressure contaminated until tests prove otherwise. Health officials strongly recommend that all water be boiled vigorously for one minute before it is consumed.

The area affected includes John R. Junkin Drive, a portion of South Canal Street, Marin Avenue, the Bluff Street area, Glenwood subdivision and a portion of Government Fleet Road.

Moon said samples were delivered to the Mississippi Department of Health Friday, and Water Works may receive word today about whether the boil-water notice can be lifted or should remain in place.

Affected businesses and residences received notice via phone or flier, Moon said, and can look for updates at natchezwaterworks.com.

While a boil-water notice is in effect, residents should:

• Not drink tap water while the water system is under a boil water advisory.
• Not drink from water fountains in parks, public or private buildings that receive water from the affected system.
• Not use ice unless it has been made with boiled water. Freezing will not necessarily kill harmful bacteria.
• Not use tap water to make drinks, juices, or fountain soft drinks.
• Wash your dishes in boiled water, or use paper plates for the next few days.
• Wash your fruits and vegetables with boiled or bottled water since they may have been exposed to affected water from grocery store sprayers.
• Wash your hands and bathe as usual. Bathing is safe as long as no water is swallowed.
• Brush your teeth with boiled or bottled water.
• Cook with tap water if the food will be boiled for at least one minute.
• Bring water to a rolling boil for one minute will inactivate all major types of harmful bacteria.