Residents of Nimbin are being advised to boil their water before drinking.

Lismore City Council said in a statement this afternoon that the pipeline between Mulgum Creek and DE Williams Dam has become contaminated with sediment.

This situation does not affect those connected to Nimbin village’s water supply.

“Lismore City Council is working to fix the problem,” the statement said.

“Effective chlorine disinfection cannot be assured for customers connected to the water supply between Weir and Dam.

“This boil water notice is effective from December 18 until further notice.

“Water used for drinking or food preparation should be brought to a rolling boil to make it safe.

“Kettles with automatic shut off switches can do this.

“Water should then be allowed to cool and stored in a clean container with a lid and refrigerated.

“Bottled water or cool boiled water should be used for drinking, washing uncooked food like salad vegetables and fruit, making ice, cleaning teeth, gargling and for pets' drinking water.

“Dishes should be washed in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher.

“Children should take bottled water or cool boiled water to school.

“This advice should be followed until further notice.”