Boil Water Notice FAQsWhy did I receive a boil water notice?Bellevue Utilities takes the protection of our drinking water quality very seriously. If you are in an area with a boil water notice in place, it means that the drinking water system that serves your area may have been exposed to or contaminated with organisms that can cause illness. Show
What causes boil water notice incidents?The most common cause is a large water main break situation. The sudden loss of pressure in the failed water main can create a situation where air or other microorganisms can enter the water system. Although the water system maintains a chlorine disinfectant residual that kills common water microbes, in these situations the Utility takes all precautions. Water quality staff assess the damage from large main breaks and determine whether a boil water notice is needed to allow adequate sampling and testing to ensure water remains safe to drink. What do I do when I receive the boil water notice?Bellevue Utilities recommends boiling or using bottled water for drinking, preparing food, or cleaning dishes during the duration of the boil water notice. Boiling water is the best way to ensure water is free of potentially illness-causing organisms. Bring the water to a rolling boil for one minute. When it cools, refrigerate the water in clean covered containers. Tap water may still be used to meet some needs - see table below for safe uses. What happens if I drink the water during a boil water order?Anyone who drinks contaminated water may become ill. Infants, young children, the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems are more at risk of illness. This includes people who are on chemotherapy, organ or bone marrow recipients, those with HIV or AIDS, malnourished children, infants, and some of the elderly with compromised or weakened immune systems. If you feel ill and believe it may be the result of drinking potentially contaminated water, contact your health care provider. Can I still use tap water for some needs?The table below shows example safe uses of tap water during a boil water order
How long will the boil water notice last?Bellevue Utilities staff are committed to ensuring safe, high-quality drinking water. The boil water notice will remain in place until the situation has been resolved and satisfactory water sampling results are received. Bellevue Utilities will take all necessary actions to ensure the water is safe to drink before lifting the boil water notice. What do I do after a boil water order is lifted?Flush household pipes/faucets first.
Ice and automatic ice makers:
Hot water heaters, water coolers, in-line filters, and other appliances with direct water connections or water tanks:
Reverse Osmosis (RO) units: Replace pre-filters, check owner's manual. Replace other water filters, as they are disposable and may be contaminated. This applies especially to carbon filters and others that are near the end of their life. |