FAQs

What is a precautionary boil water notice?: Precautionary boil water notices are commonly issued when there is a loss of positive water pressure due to a technical issue, broken pipe, scheduled repair or loss of power. When the water main loses pressure, due to either a broken water main or a scheduled outage, it is possible that contaminants can seep into the pipes. This does not mean the water is contaminated, it simply means the possibility exists that something may have entered the water system during the loss of pressure and water should be boiled as a precaution.

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Precautionary Boil Water Notice

1. What is a precautionary boil water notice?: Precautionary boil water notices are commonly issued when there is a loss of positive water pressure due to a technical issue, broken pipe, scheduled repair or loss of power. When the water main loses pressure, due to either a broken water main or a scheduled outage, it is possible that contaminants can seep into the pipes. This does not mean the water is contaminated, it simply means the possibility exists that something may have entered the water system during the loss of pressure and water should be boiled as a precaution.

2. What should I do in the event of a precautionary boil water notice?: When a precautionary boil water alert is issued, you should take steps to ensure any water you ingest or any water which comes in contact with an open wound is either boiled, bottled or purified. Boiling for at least one full minute is the safest and most effective method of disinfection. Fill a pot with cold water and start timing when steady streams of bubbles pop from the bottom of the pot. Water must be adequately cooled before it can be used for washing or brushing teeth. Store the boiled water in clean, covered containers.

3. What if I drank water from the tap during the precautionary boil water alert?: During a precautionary boil water alert, it is rare for someone to become ill due to drinking tap water. However, if you are experiencing nausea, diarrhea or vomiting you should seek medical attention.

4. Can I take a shower?: Yes, showering or bathing is acceptable. But you should be careful to not drink the water. Although, those with open wounds or who are immunosuppressed should consider using bottled or boiled water to bathe until the notice is lifted.

5. Is it safe to brush my teeth?: As a precaution, please use bottled or boiled water to brush your teeth until the notice is lifted.

6. How long should water be boiled?: Vigorous boiling for at least one full minute is the safest and most effective method of disinfection. Do not forget to let the water adequately cool before using it.

7. Should I wash dishes while under a precautionary boil water notice?: If you are hand-washing dishes use hot soapy water, then use boiled water to rinse. If you are using a dishwasher it is safe to use if the hot water reaches at least 170 degrees or the dishwasher has a sanitizing cycle and includes a full dry cycle.

Use this handy tool to find out if you are in the City of Oviedo or are in Un-Incorporated Seminole County.

9. Can tap water be used to prepare food?: You should boil tap water before using it to prepare food. Or, if possible use bottled water while under a precautionary boil water notice.