What is a Boil Water Advisory?

Today residents of Wichita received notice from the City government that a boil water advisory had been issued for those who are reliant on the city's water system. A break in a water main left many residents without water or adequate water pressure late in the day and the boil water notice came in shortly after. What is a boil water advisory? This is a precautionary measure that health officials may issue if a water supply has, or could have, bacteria that could make people sick.

What Do I Need to Do in a Boil Water Advisory?

First, you should only use bottled water for drinking, cooking, or washing produce you will consume. If you have an infant that is drinking formula, you need to use bottled water to prepare bottles or use a ready-to-use product. Pets are susceptible to the same kinds of illnesses as humans with contaminated water and should only consume bottled or boiled water.

If you don't have access to bottled water, you can use boiled water. You need to bring water to a full rapid boil for one minute and then allow it to cool before you use it. You should stop using ice that is made with possibly contaminated water, discard any ice, and turn off the icemaker.

According to the City of Wichita, if you need to clean food preparation surfaces or dishes, you should use clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.

If you need to bathe, you can use water from the tap, unless you have open wounds or rashes. In those cases, the City recommends consulting your doctor. You should brush your teeth with bottled or boiled water only. You should be able to wash clothes as usual without concern.

It's not clear yet when the boil water advisory will be lifted by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), but until it is, keep you and your family safe by following the proper guidelines and procedures.