What is a Boil Water Advisory?
If the public water system becomes contaminated or a situation allows the possibility of contamination (such as a water main break or loss of system pressure), Charleston Water System will issue a Boil Water Advisory. The Department of Health and Environmental Control requires the issuance of a Boil Water Advisory under certain conditions, such as loss of system pressure. During an advisory, customers should bring water to a vigorous boil for at least one minute before use. This will kill any harmful organisms that may be in the water. Click here for more information.
A Boil Water Advisory warns residents their water may be contaminated. Often, breaks in a water main or loss of pressure in the water system are to blame. While an advisory is in effect, affected residents should heat water to a vigorous, rolling boil for at least one minute before they drink it or cook with it.
A boil water advisory is issued by public health officials when there is a concern that a disaster or other event has the potential to contaminate the water supply, or when a test indicates that there is bacteriological contamination in the water. Boiling your water is an effective way to ensure that your water is safe to drink. When a boil water advisory is issued, you should make sure that any water used for drinking is maintained at boiling for at least three minutes to ensure it is safe. If you still have power, refrigerate the water after boiling.
