Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using. Or only use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, bathing and food preparation until further notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash my hands using tap water?
It is recommended that you wash your hands using soap and either bottled water or preboiled water. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer may also be used.

Can I take a shower or bath using tap water?
Adults may continue to shower as long as no water is swallowed. After you bathe or shower, wash your hands in chlorinated or bottled/boiled water. People with open wounds or who are immunocompromised should avoid showering in contaminated tap water.

Can I wash dishes using tap water?
You may use a dishwasher if it has a sanitizing cycle. If it does not have a sanitizing cycle, or you are not sure if it does, you may hand wash dishes and utensils by following these steps:

• Wash the dishes as you normally would.
• As a final step, immerse the dishes for at least one minute in lukewarm water, to which a teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water has been added.
• Allow the dishes to air dry completely.

.The health department also recommends the following steps:

• Throw away beverages and ice cubes if made with tap water.
• Keep boiled water in the refrigerator for drinking;
• Use only boiled water to treat minor injuries.

Once the problem has been corrected, a Boil Water Lift Notice will be posted, and it will no longer be necessary to boil water before consumption. The health department advises:

• Flush the water lines at each fixture by allowing the hot & cold water to run for 3-5 minutes.
• Purge water using fixtures and ice machines (including ice cubes made with tap water that had not been boiled during the boil order).
• Replace or clean filters on faucet filtration systems.