A water main break on 24 Mile Road Tuesday afternoon forced Shelby Township and the city of Rochester to issue a boil water notice for the city's east side for at least the next 48 hours.

A 36-inch water main on 24 Mile Road between Schoenherr and Jewel roads broke just before noon Tuesday.

The water pressure has been restored, and crews are working to repair the break. But because there is a risk for contaminants to siphon their way back into a water distribution system when that system loses pressure, public health officials advise residents to boil the water until a water test is performed.

If you are affected by the boil water order, here's what you need to know:

• Vigorously boil water for five minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. This includes water used for brushing teeth, making ice, washing raw foods, preparation of drinks, and water for pets.
• If you can't boil the water, use bottled water.
• Use a dishwasher if possible to clean dishes.
• Do not swallow water while showering or bathing.
• It is OK to wash clothes with the water.

After the boil water advisory is lifted (if contamination of the water system did occur), you should flush household pipes, ice makers, water fountains, etc. prior to using for drinking or cooking. Flushing means letting the water run to ensure that no contaminated water remains in your pipes.

Check back with the Shelby-Utica Patch for updates on the boil water advisory.