Boil-water notices explained

A boil-water advisory means local officials want people to take precautions against germs that may be in tap water. Follow the notice closely, including instructions about drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, making ice and hygiene. Until officials say otherwise, use bottled water or boil tap water as directed. Do not use water or ice from appliances connected to the water line, such as refrigerator dispensers.

If bottled water is unavailable and the advisory calls for boiling, CDC advises bringing clear water to a full rolling boil for one minute, or three minutes above 6,500 feet, then letting it cool before use. Read the official instructions for cloudy water and for other circumstances before preparing it. Keep the cooled water in clean containers.

Boiling kills germs, but it does not remove chemicals. A do-not-drink or do-not-use advisory may require a different response. Use the alternative water source and precautions officials specify rather than assuming boiling makes everything safe. Notices can change, so check updates from your water utility or local health department. Wait for their all-clear before returning to normal tap-water use.