by J. A. Tiscareno

January 14, 2024

A boil water alert is a public health advisory issued by authorities when there is a concern about the safety of the drinking water supply. These boil water alerts are typically issued in response to potential contamination of the water with harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Boiling water is a common and effective method to kill or inactivate these microorganisms, making the water safe for consumption. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what to do when you receive a water boil alert, covering various aspects such as the reasons for the alert, steps to take, and tips for ensuring water safety.

Understanding the Water Boil Alert

If you are wondering “what do I do when there is a boil water advisory near me,” before delving into the actions to take, it’s essential to understand the reasons behind such situations. Water boil alerts are typically issued when there is a risk of microbial contamination in the drinking water supply. This contamination can occur due to various reasons, including:

1. Water Main Breaks: Breaks or leaks in water mains can allow contaminants to enter the water supply.
2. Natural Disasters: Events such as floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes can disrupt water treatment facilities and introduce contaminants.
3. Malfunctioning Water Treatment Plants: Technical issues or malfunctions in water treatment plants may compromise the quality of treated water.
4. Microbial Contamination: The presence of harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, or parasites in the water.

Once a water boil advisory is issued, it is crucial to take immediate steps to protect yourself and your community from potential health risks.

Steps to Take During a Water Boil Alert

1. Stop Using Tap Water for Consumption: Immediately discontinue using tap water for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or any other activity that involves ingesting water. This applies for both you, your family, and pets. NOTE: It is safe to wash clothing in your laundry machines during a boil alert.
2. Boil Water: Boil water vigorously for at least one minute to kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms. Allow the water to cool before using it.
3. Use Boiled or Bottled Water: Use boiled water or bottled water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula.
4. Avoid Unboiled Water: Even for activities like making coffee or tea, unboiled water isn’t safe until the alert is lifted. This includes using any appliance connected to a waterline such as the ice maker in your freezer or water from the refrigerator dispenser.
5. Use a tested water filtration system product with proven test results, such as those from Sagan Life®. All their products will keep you from getting ill from contamination. You can find which products fit your needs best at the URL below.
   https://www.saganlife.com/water-filtration-products/
6. Sanitize Utensils and Surfaces: Sanitize utensils and surfaces that meet water to prevent cross-contamination.
7. Monitor Updates from Authorities: Stay informed about updates from local authorities regarding the water boil alert. Follow their instructions for lifting the alert.
8. Seek Medical Attention if Needed: If you experience symptoms of waterborne illnesses (such as diarrhea, nausea, or stomach cramps), promptly seek medical attention.

Tips for Ensuring Water Safety

1. Have Emergency Water Supply: Maintain an emergency supply of bottled water in your home to use during situations like water boil alerts. It’s a wise practice to have long term water storage containers somewhere near you. These can range from 55 gallon water storage drums or 3 gallon water storage containers.
2. Use Water Filters: Consider using water filters certified to remove microbial contaminants. Take solace in knowing that the DuraFlo™, Journey™ and UltraFlo filter products from Sagan Life® were all tested to meet strict criteria for meeting or exceeding the EPA for Drinking Water Regulations .
3. Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about water quality in your area. Be aware of potential risks and advisories.
4. Follow Disposal Guidelines: Dispose of ice cubes, beverages, and food prepared with tap water during the water boil alert.
5. Educate Others: Share information about water safety and the importance of following advisories with friends, family, and neighbors. The more accurate information you can share, the better your neighborhood and community will be to endure the period until safe water is available from public sources.

Conclusion

Staying informed, having emergency supplies, and following guidelines from local authorities are essential steps in ensuring water safety.

You can find additional information about boil water alerts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

By understanding and implementing these measures, individuals can contribute to protecting themselves and their communities during your local water boil alerts.