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1. Why has a boil order been issued?

This boil order is being issued in accordance with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency regulations. Anytime water pressure drops below 20 pounds per square inch in any part of a community’s water distribution system, a boil order must be issued. The boil order remains in effect until tested samples demonstrate that the water is safe.

2. Can I drink the water?

During a boil order, only bottled water or water that has been boiled for 5 minutes and cooled should be consumed or used to wash dishes, wash fruits/vegetables, make ice cubes or brush teeth.

3. Can I wash my hands with this water?

It is recommended bottled water or water boiled for 5 minutes and cooled should be used for hand washing. When this is not practical, it is recommended that if tap water must be used to wash and rinse it should be followed up with the use of a hand sanitizer. Using extra precautions with hand washing ensures that hands are clean for eating.

4. Can I shower or take a bath in this water?

Yes, it is safe to shower or bathe in the water. The primary concern is that the water not be consumed. Instruct children not to put the water in their mouth when they are bathing. If you have recent surgical wounds or a chronic illness, you may want to use bottled or boiled water for bathing until the advisory is lifted.

5. How do I wash my dishes?

Use bottled water or water that has been boiled for 5 minutes to wash and rinse dishes. Household dishwashers are generally safe to use if the water reaches a final rinse temperature of 150°Fahrenheit or if the dishwasher has a sanitizing cycle.

6. Can I wash my clothes in the water?

Yes, you may continue to use the water to wash clothes. The major concern is consuming the water.

7. Can my pets drink the water?

Animals generally are not affected in the same way as people by contaminants in the water. An individual may give their pet bottled water or water that has been boiled for 5 minutes and cooled if they choose.

8. What do we need to do when the boil order is lifted?

When the order is lifted you should flush the buildings water lines for at least one minute or till you feel a temperature change and clean the faucet screens. Also, purge water-using fixtures and appliances of standing water and/or ice. This includes changing the water filter on refrigerators.