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JEFFERSON COUNTY, N.Y. -- A state of emergency remains in effect in the Jefferson County village of Deferiet. The village is facing a water shortage. All use of water for things like your yard, garden or washing your car is prohibited.

The village's main source of water, known as well number two, has a broken pump and it is not expected to be fixed until June 1st. That's because the pump has to be shipped in from out of state.

In the meantime, the village water is being pumped to the tower by a backup facility, but village officials are worried it will not be able to carry the load needed to fulfill the village's water demand.

The mayor says the state of emergency declaration is a precautionary measure.

“We are just taking preparations and steps in case our well number one fails, we don’t want to be stuck without water. We want to make sure we have plans and steps in place just in case that well fails and the state can come in and give us a hand,” said Deferiet Mayor Robert Foster.

Deferiet has about 300 people and 125 homes.

The water is safe to drink, but people must conserve use in all other areas.