How can I disinfect drinking water if a Precautionary Boil Water Notice is issued?

There are two simple and effective methods you can use to treat drinking water to remove impurities.

  • Boiling: Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute.
  • Disinfecting: Liquid chlorine bleach (unscented) can be used at a dose of 8 drops (1/8 teaspoon) per each gallon of water. Let stand for at least 30 minutes before use. If water is cloudy use 16 drops (1/4 teaspoon) per gallon of water.
  • Use boiled or bottled water for drinking, food preparation, mixing baby formula, making ice, washing food, manual utensil and equipment washing, rinsing and sanitizing, brushing teeth or any other activity involving the consumption of water. Pets should also be given boiled or bottled water.
  • Child care centers and schools should use only bottled or boiled water for mixing infant formula, hand washing and for mixing sanitizing solutions for diapering areas and surfaces such as tabletops and toys. Adult employees should use a hand sanitizer after washing hands with tap water and soap. Do not use drinking fountains.
  • Retail food establishments must follow the guidance of the local Health Department.
  • Other businesses and non-residential sites can help inform the public by posting notices at or disabling water fountains and ice machines during the Precautionary Boil Water Notice. If water is provided to visitors or employees, use commercially produced bottled water for drinking or beverage preparation.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Precautionary Boil Water Notice?
2. Why would the City issue a Precautionary Boil Water Notice?
3. How can I disinfect drinking water if a Precautionary Boil Water Notice is issued?
4. Since this is a precautionary measure, will I get sick if I drink the water? What if I drank some water before I found out about the advisory?
5. Do I still need to boil my water if I have a filter system on my faucet or refrigerator?
6. Is it safe to still wash dishes, do laundry, and bathe?
7. How long will the Precautionary Boil Water Notice be in effect?
8. How will I know when the Precautionary Boil water Notice has been lifted?
9. Is there anything I must do after the Precautionary Boil Water Notice is lifted?