People in Grand Rapids are being asked to boil their water and take other measures after a water main break Sunday afternoon.

Loss of pressure during a water main break can allow bacteria to enter a system. […] “When there’s a loss of pressure in the system, there’s a chance that harmful, harmful things from the ground can end back up in the water system," said [Grand Rapids water system manager Wayne] Jernberg. "If you boil it, you’re essentially killing off any pathogens.”

The affected area spans east of the Grand River; north of Hall Street between Fuller and Ionia Avenues; and north of Fulton Street until Four Mile Road.

“If you’re in that zone, … boil your water, be safe, don’t take any chances,” said Jernberg. “Those outside of that region, there are no issues; the water is completely safe.”

I was going to to link to MLive’s coverage but the article was blocked by a ill-placed, totally “tone-deaf” paywall…regarding a municipal emergency? Go figure.

In any case, dear Grand Rapids-area readers, be safe! Pretend you’re all in Mexico and drink cerveza instead.