The discovery of E. coli bacteria in the Pembroke, Massachusetts water supply prompted local authorities to issue a state of emergency on Sunday.

Authorities are making efforts to deal with the emergency situation and are currently delivering bottled water to all who need it. As much as 8000 gallons of free bottled water is being handed out to Pembroke residents this morning.

People who rely on the town’s water supply were urged to boil tap water before drinking or bathing in it. By declaring the state of emergency, local authorities made sure the town would receive assistance from state agencies and have more spending freedom.

Town residents can pick up free bottled water from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Pembroke High School. Pembroke has about 18,000 people, but many of them rely on their own water supply.

Officials are working to flush out fire hydrants in an attempt to rid of the E. coli bacteria, which was first detected in the water system a week ago. Among other measures, authorities have also added chlorine to the water distribution system and are hoping that soon they will be able to pump out the infested water and eliminate the E. coli from it.

E. coli can cause humans cramps, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and other similar symptoms. The elderly, the infants and young children are the most predisposed to the bacteria.