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Boil Water Advisory

If water is potentially unsafe to drink, the Florida Department of Health and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection will issue precautionary boil water advisories. 
During A Boil Water Advisory

Don't Consume Tap Water

  • Use bottled water for drinking, and to prepare and cook food.
  • If boiling water for use, bring water to a FULL ROLLING BOIL for 1 MINUTE, then allow the water to COOL BEFORE USE. 
  • Boil tap water even if it is filtered (for example, by a home water filter or a pitcher that filters water).
  • Do not use water from any appliance connected to your water line, such as ice and water from a refrigerator.
  • Be careful not to swallow any water when bathing or showering.
  • Use caution when bathing babies and young children. Consider giving them a sponge bath to reduce the chance of them swallowing water.

 
What If I Drink The Water
If you drank the water before hearing of the advisory, your risk of becoming ill is very low. Anyone experiencing symptoms of gastroenteritis, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, with or without fever, should seek medical attention. Advise your health care provider that you have consumed tap water during a Boil Water Advisory. These symptoms are not unique to exposure to potential contaminants/organisms in the water, and a doctor's involvement is key to identifying the cause of your illness.
After A Boil Water Advisory
  • Run all cold water faucets for at least 5 minutes.
  • Flush your refrigerator's water lines.
  • Flush ice makers by getting rid of at least 3 batches of ice, then making new batches of ice.
  • Ice maker containers should be wiped clean before refilling and using.
Read more from the Florida Department of Health at this hyperlink.