How long should water be boiled?

Vigorous 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. Using bottled water is also an option.

Show All Answers

1. Why are Precautionary Boil Water Notices issued?
2. What if I accidentally drank tap water before I learned about the Precautionary Boil Water Notice?
3. How long should water be boiled?
4. How does boiling water make it safe to drink?
5. Should I use bottled water?
6. Can I wash my hands in tap water during the notice period?
7. What about brushing teeth?
8. Can I take a shower?
9. What about washing dishes?
10. Can I wash food with tap water?
11. Can I use tap water for making coffee, tea, lemonade, baby formula, frozen juice, or other beverages?
12. Can I use my ice maker during the notice?
13. Does a water filter protect me?
14. Is it safe to give water to pets?
15. Can I use tap water to water my grass or garden?
16. If the street next to my street is under a Precautionary Boil Water Notice, will the same precautions apply to me?
17. When will the Precautionary Boil Water Notice be lifted?
18. How is the public notified?
19. Is there anything I must do after the Precautionary Boil Water Notice is lifted?