A Boil Water Advisory (BWA) is a preventative measure issued to protect the health of the community from water borne infectious agents. A Boil Water Advisory is issued only after careful consideration among representatives from public health, regulatory agencies and municipal departments.

What should I do when under a BWA?

Create a supply of water for cooking, drinking and toothbrushing.

•  Bring the water to a rolling boil for 1 minute. Timing starts when the water starts to bubble.
•  Cool the water then place in clean containers for use or refrigerate.

Hot soapy water can be used for dishwashing and kitchen / bathroom surface cleaning. As a precaution, add one tablespoon of bleach per gallon.

Laundry water does not need to be treated. Unless otherwise noted, water for showering does not need to be treated.

If the water is not safe for drinking because of germs (bacteria, viruses or parasites), good handwashing with soap and water should be followed up with hand disinfection with alcohol-based disinfectant.

Reasons and Overview of a Boil Water Advisory | Keeping Children Safe | Keeping Seniors Safe | Washing Dishes

Detailed Information is available for the following settings:

Child Care Facilities | Dental Offices | Food Service Operations | Health Care Facilities | Ice Makers | Pool/Spa owners | Recreational Camps

More Information:

• Water Quality Monitoring | Adverse Water Reports for our area | Chlorination By-Products (THMs)
• Boil Water / Drinking Water Advisories (Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care)