Boil Water Advisory/Notice

What is a Boil Water Advisory?

A Boil Water Advisory (BWA) is a precautionary statement issued to our customers advising them to boil their drinking water before consumption. This is normally issued in response to surrounding activities that could allow contaminants to enter the distribution system. A BWA does not mean the water is contaminated, but that conditions occurred in which the water quality is unknown and consumers should assume the water is unsafe until proper analysis can be conducted.

A water main break or scheduled maintenance that results in small or widespread loss of system pressure will require the issuance of a BWA. When ruptured water mains occur and we are required to issue a BWA, we will notify door to door only the customers affected within this service area. If the BWA is wide spread, the City may utilize available media such as television or radio to notify consumers as soon as possible.

In some cases, we can maintain a high enough system pressure to greatly reduce the likelihood of contaminants from entering the distribution system. In this case, no boil water advisory will be issued.

What should I do during a Boil Water Advisory?

You should boil tap water vigorously for at least one full minute prior to using it for drinking or cooking. This process should be used on any water designated for human or pet consumption, brushing teeth, and making ice. Boiling water will remove any harmful bacteria present in the water that may cause illness. Please allow the water to cool properly before consumption.

Boil Water Notice

A Boil Water Notice is different than a Boil Water Advisory. A Boil Water Notice is issued when contamination is confirmed. If you are issued you a Boil Water Notice you must boil your water or use bottled water and follow any additional instructions cited in the notice.

Boil Water Repeal

After analysis has confirmed no contamination is present a boil water repeal will be issued. Once water service has been restored and samples are collected, this process usually takes anywhere from 18 - 24 hours to confirm. Once again, consumers should assume the water is contaminated until you receive a boil water repeal. To contact us, please call 843-665-3236.