Boil order lifted for Skokie water customers after large water main break

Skokie officials said thorough testing confirmed that Skokie tap water is now meeting all Illinois EPA water quality standards and is safe to drink and use as normal without any more precautions.

This means Skokie residents and businesses can now use tap water for drinking, cooking, hygiene and other purposes without the need for boiling.

Officials added water pressure throughout Skokie’s water system is continuing to improve.

However, officials recommend residents and businesses take the following steps to remove air and flush any sediment that may be present in the water pipes of homes and establishments:

1. Remove faucet aerators from all cold water taps in the home.
2. Beginning in the lowest level of the home, run the cold water full force at all taps, making sure the drain is clear.
3. Let the water run for 5 minutes at the last tap you opened (top floor).
4. Then, turn off each tap starting with the taps in the highest level of the home. Be sure to run water in bathtubs and showers as well as faucets.

Faucet aerators: It’s not uncommon for faucet aerators to become clogged when interior piping is drained. Here’s a video with tips for cleaning faucet aerators.

Washing machines and dishwashers: After flushing your taps, consider running your washing machine and dishwasher on empty for one cycle before using for best water quality. 

Refrigerator filters: After flushing your taps, it’s best practice to replace the drinking water filter in your refrigerator per manufacturer’s recommendations.

Guidance for buildings: The IDPH offers additional guidance for buildings regarding tap flushing. 

Questions or issues: If you observe a leak or other issues with your water system, call a licensed plumber.

For residents who had property damaged or ruined due to the water main break, help could be coming from the state. Mayor George Van Dusen told WGN News on Sunday that the Village of Skokie will be seeking disaster assistance by way of an emergency declaration.

“We’ve asked residents to share with us their information so we can make an approximation of what the damage is in dollars and cents,” Van Dusen said.

Anyone with additional questions is asked to call Skokie Public Works at 847-933-8427. Phones will be open on Monday, Feb. 17 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

For more information on how to report your property damage, go to: www.skokie.org.

The Skokie Village Board will meet Tuesday night to discuss an emergency declaration.