Precautionary Boil Water Notice
Affected customers are notified when a precautionary boil water notice is in place and when a precautionary boil water notice is lifted. You may check the status any time at collier.gov/notifynow.
Collier County Public Utilities issues precautionary boil water notices to protect public health whenever there is a possibility of contaminants entering the drinking water system. These notices are a standard safety measure regulated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and supported by Florida Department of Health guidelines. A boil water notice is a temporary, protective measure and we work around the clock to restore normal service as quickly as possible.
Why a Precautionary Boil Water is Issued
A precautionary boil water notice is issued when conditions may have allowed contaminants to enter the water system, even if no contamination has been confirmed. Events that commonly trigger a notice include:
- Water main break
- Water pressure falls below 20 PSI
- Repair or maintenance that requires shutting off water service
- Natural events such as a hurricane or flooding
These situations create a possibility that microorganisms could enter the system, so we issue the notice as a safeguard until water quality testing confirms the water is safe. A precautionary boil water notice does not mean the water is contaminated. It means the utility is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of the water supply.
What to do during a precautionary boil water notice
While the notice is in effect, customers are asked to take precautions with all water used for:
- Drinking
- Cooking
- Making ice
- Brushing teeth
- Washing fruits and vegetables
- Preparing baby formula
To disinfect tap water, bring it to a rolling boil for one full minute. This kills bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present. Bottled water is a safe alternative if boiling is not possible.
Safe use for bathing and cleaning
Tap water can be used for bathing, handwashing and household cleaning. Avoid swallowing water during bathing or showering. Use boiled or bottled water for brushing teeth.
Duration of a precautionary boil water notice
Most boil water notices last 24 to 48 hours, depending on how quickly laboratory testing can confirm that the water meets all state and federal safety standards. Bacteriological samples are collected and analyzed. Water must receive clear results before the notice is lifted.
Mandatory Boil Water Notices
A Mandatory Boil Water Notice is issued when contamination in the drinking water system is confirmed. This occurs when testing shows that microbiological contaminants exceed allowable limits under state and federal drinking water standards. In these cases, customers must boil water for one minute or use bottled water until the issue is resolved and the notice is lifted. Mandatory notices are rare but are taken very seriously to protect public health.
After A Mandatory Boil Water Notice Is Lifted
Once the notice is lifted, take a few simple steps to ensure that any water held in pipes or appliances is fully cleared.
- Flush your faucets for several minutes to bring fresh water into your home’s plumbing.
- Discard and replace all ice made during the boil water notice.
- Run your refrigerator’s water dispenser for several minutes.
Boil water notices, whether precautionary or mandatory, are part of a strong safety system designed to protect you and your family.