There are several reasons why you may be asked to boil your tap water:
- If tests show that harmful microorganisms could be present in the water
- If the water pressure drops due to equipment failure or power outages
- Due to water main breaks or repairs
- If the water source has been flooded
- Due to any other situations that warrant special action to protect consumers’ health
How will I know when it is safe to drink my tap water?
You will be notified when tests show that the tap water is safe to drink. You may be asked to run water to flush the pipes in your home before using your tap water or be given other special instructions. Until you are notified, continue to boil all tap water for one minute before use.
What should I do if I become sick?
See your family physician or healthcare provider. Your doctor may call the Virginia Department of Health - Office of Drinking Water at (804) 864-7500 for information about the boil water notice. Your doctor should notify the local health department if he or she suspects your illness was caused by microorganisms in the water.
Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants. People with weakened immune systems, such as people with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant patients, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be at greater risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. Guidelines on ways to reduce the risk of infection from microbiological contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800) 426-4791.
Be sure to bring your water to a full rolling boil for one minute.
General Information
How does boiling make my tap water safe?
How long should I boil the water?
How do I boil water on the stovetop?
Can I boil water in the microwave?
Boiling Water for Consumption
Do I have to boil the tap water used to make beverages?
Should I boil the tap water used to make baby formula?
Should I boil the tap water used in cooking?
Do I need to boil water before using it to wash vegetables that will be eaten raw?
Should I boil the tap water I give to my animals or pets?
Boiling Water for Hygiene and Cleaning
Is it necessary to boil water to be used for hand washing? Is any special soap necessary?
What about my bath water?
Should I boil tap water for brushing my teeth?
Do I have to boil water to wash my dishes?
Do I need to use boiled water for washing clothes?
Do I need to use boiled water for flushing the toilet?
Safety of Alternatives to Boiled Tap Water
Can I use bottled water instead of boiling tap water?
Do I still have to boil tap water if I have a water treatment device such as a filter?
Is it safe to use water or ice dispensed from my refrigerator?
Can I haul water from my neighbor’s well or spring for drinking purposes?
What should I do if there is a power outage and I can't boil my tap water?
Last Updated: October 25, 2023
