Boil Water Notice Continues Saturday Morning for Lubbock and Other Cities

The City of Lubbock has provided more information for citizens and business for the Boil Water Notice which was issued earlier today during the Lubbock Blackout.

Boil Water Notices are also in effect for the following areas: Reese Redevelopment Authority, Buffalo Springs Lake Community, Lake Ransom Canyon Community, City of New Deal.

Water is safe for bathing, according to the city.

The Boil Water Notice isn't expected to be lifted until Sunday or Monday.

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The City of Lubbock has issued a boil water notice. Due to power outage and loss of water
pressure, the public should boil water for at least 2 minutes prior to consumption until further notice. If unable to boil water, the public should use bottled water.

The reason for the boil water notice is purely precautionary due to the low water pressure from the power outage. Questions should be directed to 775-2588.

Why are boil water advisories issued?
Boil water advisories are issued when a water source is shut off, or when a water source pressure level drops below 20 psi. With this loss of pressure, there is a great possibility for water to become contaminated with harmful bacteria.

What determines the length of a boil water advisory?
The results of the water sample tests. When water service is restored, a Lab Analyst will take water samples from several points in the affected service area. The samples are allowed to incubate up to 24 hours; no less than 18 hours. If the water is contaminated, bacteria will have grown.

How long must water be boiled prior to consumption?
Vigorously (with bubbles) for at least two (2) minutes.

Why should I boil water prior to consumption?
Boiling the water kills harmful bacteria if water is contaminated.

What precautions should be taken after a boil water advisory is lifted, if test results reveal that the water was contaminated?

Flush water lines by running all cold water faucets in the home for approximately one (1) minute.

Flush automatic ice makers by discarding three (3) batches of ice made.

Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.

Run drinking water fountains for one (1) minute.

Run water through direct water connections for five (5) minutes.

Do I still need to boil water if I have a filter system on my faucet or refrigerator?
Yes. Water filters are not designed to remove harmful bacteria.

Is water safe for washing dishes, laundry or bathing?
Dishes: Water is safe for washing dishes, but hot soapy water should be used with one (1) tablespoon
of bleach per gallon as a precaution. Dishes should be rinsed in boiled water.
Laundry: There are no restrictions on doing laundry.
Baths: Water is safe for bathing.

If I consumed water before I knew of the advisory, what will happen?
If you consume water that is proven to be contaminated and you are in good health, you should not become ill. However, young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely compromised
immune systems may become ill.

What are some of the symptoms of being affected by consuming contaminated water?
Symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. If you feel that your health has been compromised, you should seek medical attention.

What should I do for drinking water until the boil water advisory is lifted?

Melt ice in freezer (ice made prior to the advisory).

Boil all water from the tap.

What are other ways to disinfect water for consumption if I can’t boil it?
A. Household Bleach. Bleach will kill some, but not all, types of disease-causing organisms that may be in water. If the water is cloudy, filter it through a clean cloth to allow it to settle, and draw off the clear water for disinfection. Add 1/8th teaspoon (or 8 drops) of regular, unscented liquid household bleach for each gallon of water. Stir it well, and let it stand for 30 minutes before you use it. Store in clean containers with covers.
Available Chlorine Drops Per Quart Drops Per Gallon Drops Per Liter
1% 10 40 10
4-6% 2 8 2
7-10% 1 4 1

Does the issuance of a boil water alert mean that the water is definitely contaminated?
No. An advisory means that due to loss of water pressure, there is a possibility that water could be contaminated; therefore, we operate under the precaution that contamination is present until the results of the water sample tests are received.

Other than for consumption, what are other activities where water must be boiled prior to use?

Brushing teeth

Cooking

Preparing drinks

Washing raw foods or foods in general

Making ice

Water for pets
In whatever form, if you can consume the water, it must be boiled.

How long should I wait to consume water after it is boiled?
Wait for the water to cool before using it, or store in the refrigerator in a clean container to cool