Mercier, Sainte-Martine on Montreal's South Shore under boil water advisory

A major water main break on Montreal's South Shore Wednesday has prompted a boil water advisory in two municipalities: Mercier and Sainte-Martine.

City officials are warning residents to bring their tap water to a rolling boil, for at least one minute, before consuming it.

It is necessary to boil your tap water if you will:

- Drink it or using it to prepare drinks.

- Prepare baby formula or other baby food.

- Wash raw foods with it (salad, fruits, vegetables).

- Prepare foods that don't have long cooking times (packaged soups, desserts).

- Make ice cubes.

- Brush your teeth or rinse your mouth

- Give water to pets.

However, tap water can be used without boiling it if it's for:

- Washing foods that will then be cooked for a prolonged period of time.

- Hand-washing dishes, as long as the dishes are properly dried.

- Washing dishes in the dishwasher, provided that the hottest setting is selected.

- Washing clothes

- Taking a shower or a bath. However, if bathing a baby, make sure the baby doesn't swallow the water.

The municipalities of Mercier and Sainte-Martine will advise residents on its websites and Facebook pages once the advisory is lifted.