Smooth Rock Falls ends boil-water advisory after tests confirm safety

Smooth Rock Falls ended a boil-water advisory on Nov. 8, 2025, after water sample results indicated the municipal system is safe to drink from, according to notices from the town and Northeastern Public Health.

The advisory, issued Nov. 6, applied to properties served by the Smooth Rock Falls Drinking Water System. Residents can resume using tap water. Northeastern Public Health advises flushing household plumbing and related equipment before returning to regular use.

In a Nov. 8 bulletin, Northeastern Public Health, citing Porcupine Health Unit guidance, recommended the following steps:

• Run cold water faucets for one minute before using the water.
• Run drinking water fountains for one minute before using the water.
• Flush garden hoses by running cold water through them for five minutes.
• Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.
• Drain and refill hot water heaters set below 45°C (normal setting is 60°C).

Northeastern Public Health said water quality results show the system meets drinking standards. The health unit noted the post-advisory instructions were copied from the Porcupine Health Unit’s guidance on using water safely during a boil-water advisory.

No additional restrictions were listed beyond the flushing steps above once the advisory ended.