Grand Prairie residents can now use their tap water safely following a recent contamination incident, according to an announcement by Mayor Ron Jensen late Thursday evening.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) confirmed that the city’s water supply meets safety standards, following a temporary halt on virtually all types of tap water use due to chemical contamination.
The contamination incident, which affected about 60,000 residents north of Interstate 20, was caused by a foaming agent used by firefighters during a recent blaze.
A faulty backflow valve inadvertently introduced the foaming agent into the city’s water system, leading city officials to warn residents against using tap water for drinking, cooking, or any purpose other than flushing toilets, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
In a press conference held Thursday night, Jensen conveyed the news.
“It’s over,” Jensen said. “We got a clean bill of health from TCEQ about an hour ago.”
However, the mayor also outlined multiple steps residents should take before resuming regular water use. He advised running hot water for 15 minutes, followed by cold water for five minutes, and flushing toilets to ensure the water supply is clear, CBS News Texas reported.
The city of Grand Prairie has set up a webpage offering tips on flushing household plumbing to ensure all contaminants have been properly cleared.
The TCEQ also indicated that a boil water notice would not be required as long as water pressure remains stable.
In related news, Grand Prairie ISD announced that schools will remain closed on Friday, September 6, for the third consecutive day to allow time for thoroughly flushing the water lines at all 36 campuses. This process will include cleaning sinks, drinking fountains, ice machines, and water heaters to guarantee safe water for students.
The district said classes are expected to resume on Monday, September 9.