Boil Water Advisory

Boil water advisories are public messages released when conditions indicate that the water is not safe for consuming unless it is treated.

During a boil water advisory

Drinking and food preparation:

• Do not use the water for drinking, food preparation (including washing vegetables and fruit), making ice or preparing infant formula unless you have brought the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute. Begin timing after the water has reached a full rolling boil and allow the water to cool before use. Commercial bottled water can also be used.
• Store boiled water in a covered container in the fridge.

Dishwashing:

• Dishes can be washed in bottled or boiled water. 
• After washing, be immersed in a sanitizing solution of 30ml (2 tablespoons) of unscented 5.25% household bleach mixed in 13.5 liters (3 gallons) of water for at least 45 seconds, or washed in a dishwasher that has a sanitizer cycle.

Personal hygiene:

• Use bottled or cooled boiled water for brushing teeth.
• If using the water to shower or bathe, do not swallow. Children should be supervised when taking a bath, and small children and babies should be sponge-bathed.
• If the advisory has been issued due to an outbreak of illness, use an alcohol-based (minimum 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer after hand washing. If you are ill with vomiting or diarrhea, avoid preparing food, and consult your doctor.

Water filters:

• Water filters will not treat the water and make it safe to drink. If contaminated water goes through your filter, replace the filter after the boil water advisory has been lifted.

After a boil water advisory

Once the boil water advisory has been lifted, open all taps and flush water lines for at least one minute.