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Precautionary Boil Water Notices

A precautionary boil water notice may be issued in the event of a water main break, a loss of power or water pressure, or another emergency that may create the opportunity for contaminants to enter the pipes. The precautionary boil water notice does not mean that the water is contaminated. Though the risk of illness is minimal, individuals who have recent surgical wounds, are immunosuppressed, or have a chronic illness may want to consider using bottled or boiled water until the notice is lifted.

When a Precautionary Boil Water Notice is issued, Esto Water Works posts notices at Esto Town Hall, online on the town’s social media and website, and press releases are sent to area newspapers. In addition door hanger notices are places on the properties of the affected Esto Water Works customers.

You can use one of the following methods to disinfect water:

  • Bring the water to a rolling boil and holding it there for one minute.
  • Use a disinfecting chemical. If water cannot be boiled, put eight drops of common household bleach –which is 1/8 teaspoon of common household bleach into one (1) gallon of tap water, shake it, and allow it to stand for thirty (30) minutes before drinking.  If the water is cloudy, use 16 drops or about 1/4 teaspoon of bleach, shake it, and let it stand for 30 minutes. There should be a slight chlorine odor. Use common household bleach that has 5% to 6% active ingredients. Use food grade containers. Do not use bleach that has perfume scents added.
  • Using water purification tablets or iodine that many sports and camping stores sell.

Disinfected or bottled water should be used for brushing teeth, washing fruits and vegetables and making ice. Tap water may be used for showers, baths, shaving and washing, so long as care is taken not to swallow or allow water in eyes, nose, or mouth. Children and disabled individuals should have their bath supervised to ensure water is not ingested. The time spent bathing should be minimized.

A Precautionary Boil Water Notice remains in effect until work is completed and a bacteriological tests show that the water is safe to drink.

For more information, please contact the Esto Town Clerk at 850-263-6521.