ATHENS, Ohio — Residents of Hillcrest Dr. west of Strathmore Blvd. and Utah Place north of Dalton Ave. are under a boil advisory starting at 11:15 a.m. Tuesday, lasting until 1 p.m. Wednesday.
A boil advisory is a precautionary measure issued when the water distribution system’s pressure drops below 20 psi due to issues like water main breaks, flooding, or maintenance. It ensures safety until tests confirm the water is free from contaminants, typically within 24 hours.
During a boil advisory, residents are advised to:
- Bring water to a full boil for three minutes before use.
- Use boiled water for drinking, food preparation, and baby formula.
- Refrigerate boiled water to improve taste.
- Cover faucets as a reminder not to use tap water, including for brushing teeth.
- Alternatively, disinfect water by adding one teaspoon of unscented chlorine bleach per five gallons, letting it stand for 30 minutes before use.
- Use sanitized, food-grade containers for storing water.
- Sterilize water storage containers by rinsing with a solution of one tablespoon of bleach per gallon for 10 minutes.
Other precautions include disposing of ice cubes made during the advisory, using disposable tableware, and sterilizing dishes with a bleach solution.
Bathing water does not need boiling, but children should be supervised to prevent ingestion. Immunocompromised individuals should take extra precautions.
While a boil advisory indicates potential compromise, water providers lift advisories once tests confirm water safety, typically within 24 hours. For more information, residents can call the Boil Advisory hotline at 740-594-5078.
The Ohio EPA and CDC provide general infection prevention information at 1-800-426-4791.