Boil Water Advisory: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

During a boil water advisory, it's crucial to take precautions to protect yourself and your family from waterborne illnesses. The primary recommendation is to boil all water intended for consumption for at least one minute at a rolling boil. This includes water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, and washing dishes. Allow the water to cool completely before using.

If boiling isn't feasible, you can disinfect water using unscented household bleach. Add eight drops (1/8 teaspoon) of bleach per gallon of clear water or 16 drops (1/4 teaspoon) per gallon of cloudy water. Stir well and let it stand for 30 minutes before using. Ensure the bleach is plain, without added scents or cleaning agents.

Beyond drinking water, consider the water used for other purposes. Showering or bathing is generally safe, but avoid swallowing any water. For young children, consider giving them sponge baths to prevent accidental ingestion. For pets, provide them with boiled or bottled water as well.

If you have a dishwasher, it's generally safe to use it during a boil water advisory, as most modern dishwashers reach high enough temperatures to sanitize dishes. However, for washing dishes by hand, it's essential to sanitize them with a bleach solution after washing. Mix one tablespoon of unscented bleach per gallon of cool water. Soak the dishes for at least one minute and then air dry.

A boil water advisory can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the situation and the time required to resolve the underlying issue and ensure water safety. Stay informed by checking local news outlets, official government websites, and your water utility company's announcements. They will provide updates on the advisory and notify you when it is lifted.

Once the advisory is lifted, flush your water system by running all cold water taps for several minutes. This helps clear any potentially contaminated water from your plumbing. Also, discard any ice made during the advisory and clean your refrigerator's automatic ice maker.

Taking these precautions during a boil water advisory is essential for safeguarding public health. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of waterborne illnesses and ensure the safety of yourself and your family. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to water safety.