In times of extreme crisis,
local health departments may urge consumers to use
more caution or to follow additional measures. These
measures may include notices to:“Conserve
Water”, “Do Not Drink”, “Do
Not Use”, or “Disinfect
Your Water”. Also included below is
information about Water Shutoff.
For more information on water quality during an emergency, it’s best to call your local water retailer. Click here for links to Orange County water retailers.
From time to time, water providers
request that their customers voluntarily conserve water.
Such requests usually occur when a water-treatment facility
or the regional conveyance system is undergoing reliability
improvements or repairs. Conserving water can occur
at many levels. Typically, we ask that residents continue
to practice indoor water conservation – turning
off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving,
running the dishwasher or clothes washer only when there
are full loads, taking shorter showers. On occasion
we also ask that residents and businesses also curtail
outdoor watering for short periods of time. This helps
maximize available water resources.
If your water provider issues a Do
Not Drink order, water can be used for bathing, washing
and other household chores. However, as stated, do not
use the water for drinking purposes, not even with disinfection
treatment.
DO NOT USE TAP WATER FOR DRINKING,
COOKING, HAND WASHING OR BATHING UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
Bottled water should be used for all
drinking purposes, including baby formula and mixing
with juice. Also use bottled water for brushing your
teeth, washing dishes, making ice and in food preparation.
DO NOT TRY TO TREAT THE WATER YOURSELF.
Boiling, freezing, filtering, adding
chlorine or other disinfectants, or letting water
stand will not make the water safe to use.
DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING
IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for
one (1) minute, and let it cool before using, or use
bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used
for drinking and food preparation until further notice.
Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the
water.
An alternative method of purification
for residents who do not have gas or electricity available
is to use fresh liquid household bleach (Clorox®,
Purex®, etc.). To do so, add 8 drops (or 1/4 teaspoon)
of bleach per gallon of clear water or 16 drops (or
1/2 teaspoon) per gallon of cloudy water, mix thoroughly,
and allow to stand for 30 minutes before using. A
chlorine-like taste and odor will result from this
purification procedure and is an indication that adequate
disinfection has taken place.
Water purification tablets may
also be used. Be certain to follow the manufacturer’s
instructions.
Potable water may be available from your local water
utility. Please contact them for locations.
Watch for information to come.
