Why must I boil my water?
A Boil Order has been issued because either recent testing has shown the presence of organisms that could cause illness or technical/physical problems in the water system have significantly increased the possibility of bacterial contamination.
How can I make my water safe?
Boiling the water is the best way to ensure that it is free of illness-causing organisms. Bring water to a rolling boil for a minimum of 5 minutes. When it cools, refrigerate the water in clean containers. (A pinch of salt per quart may improve the rather "flat" taste of boiled water.)
Can I use bottled water?
Buying bottled water may be a feasible alternative to boiling water. Bottled water operations are routinely inspected, and samples are periodically analyzed to ensure they meet health standards.
During a Boil Order, can I use my tap water for……
Can I wash my hands using tap water?
It is recommended that you wash using soap and either bottled water or pre-boiled water. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer may also be used.
Can my family take showers or baths using tap water?
The risk of bathing or showering is uncertain and so should be avoided, particularly by people with open wounds or who are immunocompromised. For those people who choose to shower or bathe in the tap water, minimize the time spent in the water and be sure to keep your eyes and mouth closed. Babies and young children should not bathe or shower in tap water because they often swallow some water accidentally.
Can I wash dishes using tap water?
No, it is recommended that you wash your dishes using soap and either bottled water or pre-boiled water.
Can I use my coffee maker, ice machine, water or soda dispenser?
None of these devices should be used if they are directly connected to your water supply. Also, filters are unacceptable for removing bacteria. Once you have been notified that the Boil Order has been lifted, these devices should be cleaned and sanitized according to the operator's manual for the device.
Can I give my pets tap water?
Although pets are not normally affected by the same diseases as humans, caution suggests giving pets pre-boiled or bottled water.
Who can be affected?
Anyone who ingests contaminated water may become ill. Infants, young children, the elderly and people with severely compromised immune systems are more at risk of illness.
What are the symptoms of water-borne illness?
Disease symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea and possible jaundice and associated headaches and fatigue. Symptoms may appear as early as a few hours to several days after infection and may last more than two weeks. These symptoms, however, are not just associated with disease-causing organisms in drinking water; they may also be caused by a number of other factors. If you are ill with these symptoms, contact your health care provider.
What if I drank water already?
There is nothing you can do about the exposure you have already received. If you become ill, contact your health care provider. Follow the above recommendations about using water until you are told the water is safe again.
How long will the Boil Order remain in effect?
Each Boil Order situation is different making it impossible to predict how long the Boil Order will remain in effect. It will not be lifted until testing shows that the water meets public health standards.
Information from Tazewell County Health Department.
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