The Cape Breton Regional Municipality issued a boil water advisory Sunday for the New Waterford water system.
Residents living in the communities of New Waterford, New Victoria, River Ryan, Lingan and Scotchtown are being told to boil their water for at least one minute before drinking it.
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The advisory includes water used when preparing infant formulas, making ice cubes, washing fruits and vegetables as well as brushing your teeth.
The municipality said the boil advisory is a precautionary measure after one sample indicated quality concerns.
The advisory will remain in place until there are two clear samples from the same location over a two-day period.
The earliest the advisory could be lifted is Monday afternoon.