Water Restored, Safe to Drink on Barrier Island

Barrier island residents who are customers of New Jersey American Water can once again use their home's water supply for drinking and cooking.

The company announced Thursday that a "Do Not Consume" order had been lifted after testing showed the water was safe to drink.

"The Do Not Consume order has been lifted for all New Jersey American Water customers, as results of water quality testing have confirmed that water quality meets drinking water standards," NJAW said in a statement Thursday night.

Barrier island residents, who are expected to be able to return to their homes on a permanent basis Jan. 7, are being advised to run their water faucets for three to five minutes to thoroughly flush their homes' pipes.

Customers should also empty and clean automatic ice makers, drain and refill hot water heaters that are set below 113 degrees, and recharge water softeners and cartridges.

Water is now safe to drink in:

• All of Brick Twp.
• All of Toms River Twp. (including Chadwick Beach and Normandy Beach)
• Lavallette Boro (New Jersey American Water customers only)
• Mantoloking Boro
• Ortley Beach
• Pelican Island (Previously lifted December 19, 2012)