The City of Parsons has begun a routine cleaning of its water distribution system.

 The cleaning, which began on Tuesday, implements a free chlorine residual in the water system. During the cleaning, residents may notice chlorine tastes and odors in the water. The cleaning is precautionary and is part of an effort to ensure the safety of the drinking water in Parsons.

 The Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommends that public water supplies using a combined chlorine residual perform an annual cleaning with a free chlorine residual. KDHE officials say the addition does not pose a health risk to human consumption.

 The cleaning will continue throughout the month of July.