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I got a "Boil Water" notice. Now what?
How do I do it right?
Water should be brought to a rolling boil for one (1) minute. Shorter than 1 minute will not disinfect the water, but longer than 1 minute may evaporate enough water to produce concentrated nitrate levels that may also be unsafe for consumption.
What does a "Boil Water Notice for Drinking Water Only" really mean?
This means that unboiled water can be used for general domestic purposes where water is not swallowed, including bathing, showering, dishwashing and laundry. However, if you are not confident that swallowing can be avoided (i.e. showering), then it's best to use boiled or treated water instead even for some of these activities. Water used for drinking, making infant formula and juices, cooking, making ice, washing fruits and vegetables, and brushing teeth should be boiled first. Water used to make ice just before the boil order was issued (during the period of violation) should be discarded. Alternate safe supplies of water, such as bottled water, can also be used for these purposes.
Can I use the water for handwashing?
Water for handwashing should be treated first: Use one part regular household bleach to 1,000 parts water. Mix and let stand for at least 10 minutes prior to use. (Use one teaspoon of bleach in 1 gallon of water.)
You can use alcohol-based hand disinfectants, containing more than 60% alcohol. Wet wipes that do not contain alcohol, such as those used for cleaning babies during a diaper change, are not effective for disinfecting hands and should not be used for this purpose.
Can I take a bath or shower?
Bathing or showering in this water may be allowed but is generally not recommended.
Is it safe to use my dishwasher?
You dishwasher can safely disinfect dishes ONLY if/when it is run through a cycle that includes a hot setting. If your dishwasher does not have a hot setting, wait until the washing cycle is complete. Then soak dishes for one minute in a 1:1000 solution of regular household bleach.
If I wash dishes by hand, how do I disinfect them?
Countertops, chopping boards or utensils should be washed with soap and hot water first, and then disinfected with the following bleach solution: one part bleach with 75 parts water (3 teaspoons of regular bleach in one quart of water). Do not reuses or store this solution. Make it fresh daily.
Is the water safe to fill wading pools for children?
No, the water is not safe to use in wading pools. Children are not able to prevent water from getting in their mouths, and can therefore be infected.
Does an installed water treatment device make the water safe?
Whether a treatment device works depends heavily on the type of device and the water source - it may not be effective. Water used for drinking purposes should be brought to a rolling boil (for one minute) before it is used. This applies to water used for infant formula and juices, cooking, making ice, washing fruits and vegetables, and brushing teeth.
My doctor told me I am immunocompromised - what should I do?
Contact your physician and follow his or her advice.
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