Restaurants Ordered Closed, Boil Order In Effect For Jenks Due To E. Coli

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality has issued a boil order for all residents and businesses in Jenks, due to the presence of E. coli in the water supply.

Jenks businesses that get water from the City of Jenks have also been ordered to close by the Tulsa Health Department.

Residents are urged to bring water to a full, rolling boil for at least one minute before using it in food preparation, for brushing teeth, for bathing infants who may drink the water, for cleaning open wounds, or for dish washing.

The City of Jenks reports 18 water samples were taken and one showed signs of E. coli bacteria.

According to Jenks officials, follow-up tests were done again nearby. After the second test, the water system was flushed and another sample was taken.

Erin Hatfield of the DEQ said the E. coli was detected in samples collected on Wednesday and Thursday. She said it can be impossible to pinpoint a cause for a contamination.

Officials expect the third test results to be available Saturday.

According to a press release issued by the Tulsa Health Department Friday:

"Retail food establishments that sell packaged food may continue to sell those manufactured items; however, fountain and drink service must be discontinued.

"Before reopening once the boil order has been lifted food establishments must flush their water system, discard previous ice supplies, and wash-rinse-sanitize all food contact equipment."

See THD's Water Emergency Operational Procedures For Food Establishments

Anyone with questions on how food establishments should handle this water emergency can call the Tulsa Health Department Food Safety division at 918-595-4300.

The DEQ says residents will be notified when the water is once again considered safe for human consumption.

Hatfield said the DEQ doesn't have a timeframe for when the boil advisory will be lifted. She said it will remain in effect until follow-up samples indicate no E. coli and the system has been adequately disinfected.