Some Melrose Water Customers Could See Dry Spell Today

MELROSE, MA — Water service could run dry Friday for some customers as the city works to repair a water leak on Lebanon Street.

There will be times when there is no water for customers on Lebanon from Forest Street to South Mountain Ave. and all customers on South Mountain. The work will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The city is advising customers fill a bath or other items with water until the work is over.

Water may be discolored when it's turned back on.

Call the Department of Public Works at 781-665-0142 if you require water for a medical condition.

Here are some tips from the city:

• If you are experiencing low or no water pressure, do not attempt to use your water during this period of time.
• When the water is turned back on, turn your cold water on first and let it run until it is clear.
• Do not run your hot water or use your dishwasher until the water is clear.
• Do not use your washing machine during or immediately after the shutdown -- your clothes may become stained. If they do, do not wash them again. Call the Public Works office and we will provide you with a product that will most likely take the rust off your clothes.
• Although the water is safe to drink, please avoid drinking the water if it is discolored.
• We do not recommend it, but you may flush your toilet; however, when the water is turned on you will need to flush several times to clear the discolored water from the toilet tank.
• If you use your hot water when the water is discolored, you may have to completely flush the hot water tank to clear out the discoloration and there is a possibility that you may damage the hot water heater.

Mike Carraggi can be reached at mike.carraggi@patch.com. Follow him on Twitter @PatchCarraggi. Subscribe to Melrose Patch for free local news and alerts and like us on Facebook.