Okatie, SC (February 7, 2011) – Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA) will temporarily change the method of disinfecting the drinking water for its customers south of the Broad River this month. The change is part of routine maintenance of the water distribution system. Affected areas will include Okatie, Sun City, Hardeeville and Bluffton. The change in treatment will also affect area utilities that receive water from BJWSA, including those on Hilton Head Island. Customers might notice a chlorine taste or odor in the tap water beginning Friday, February 11 th through Monday, February 28th . Crews will also flush the system by opening fire hydrants at various locations. This process is safe and customers can drink their water as normal. Customers who are especially se nsitive to the taste and odor of chlorine should keep an open container of drinking water in their refrigerator. Th is will enable the chlorine to dissipate, thus reducing the chlorine taste. Change the wate r in your refrigerated container weekly. System flushing also may result in some minor discoloration of the water. If water appears discolored, customers should run cold water for a few minutes. If discoloration persists, call customer service at 843-987-9200.
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