Boil Water Advisories

Public water

What triggers an advisory

• A water main break or repair that could allow contamination into the system
• A loss of pressure in the distribution system
• A treatment process issue or equipment failure
• A confirmed or suspected water-quality violation requiring precautionary action

What to do during an advisory

1. Read the specific official notice carefully — instructions can vary by situation.
2. For a boil-water advisory, bring water to a rolling boil for the time specified in the notice before drinking, cooking, making ice, or brushing teeth.
3. For a do-not-drink notice, do not use the water for drinking or cooking even if boiled — follow the specific alternative instructions provided.
4. Watch for the official "all clear" notice before returning to normal use.
5. After the advisory is lifted, follow any utility guidance on flushing plumbing before resuming normal use.

Common mistakes

• Confusing a boil-water advisory with a do-not-drink notice
• Not boiling water long enough per the specific notice's instructions
• Resuming normal use before the official all-clear

Official sources

• Your utility's public notices
• Delaware Office of Drinking Water
• U.S. EPA boil-water advisory guidance

Related

• Cloudy Water
• Find Your Water System

Can I use tap water for washing dishes during a boil-water advisory?

Follow the specific instructions in your official notice, since guidance can vary. Many advisories allow washing with tap water followed by sanitizing or air-drying, but always check the current notice rather than assuming.

Always follow the specific official notice issued for your system, which takes precedence over this general guidance.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-11. Report a correction.