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All residents and businesses in the city of Staunton are being asked to boil water before consumption after a water main burst.

Staunton Public Works was notified of a water main break Thursday night behind Stocker Street. City crews found damage to a 16-inch water main. To complete repairs, water service was shut off.

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The advisory went into effect Friday and was set to expire after 48 hours to allow for crews to repair the damage and test the available water. City residents and businesses will be advised when water can be consumed without boiling.

Burst pipes can expose a water supply to bacteria, including E. coli, common in human and animal waste. If consumed, E. coli can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting.

Staunton residents should boil water before using it for drinking, cooking or brushing teeth, according to the city, bringing water to a rolling boil for at least one minute then letting it cool. It is not necessary to boil water for showers, baths, washing clothes or running a dishwasher, the city said.

The city was working to establish drinking water distribution sites Friday morning. Those locations will be shared once available.