During a Boil Water Notice, Interior Health recommends that all customers drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice.  Water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making juice or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute.  Water should then be cooled and stored in a clean, covered container in the fridge.  Customers may also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.

Health risks increase as turbidity rises, particularly for at-risk population such as newborns, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.  Contaminants such as viruses, bacteria and parasites can attach themselves to the suspended particles in turbid water.  These particles can then interfere with disinfection, limiting chlorine’s ability to remove or inactivate the contaminants.  For more information see the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality.

Owners of public facilities must post Boil Water Notices at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off).  As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Boil Water Notice.

 If you have any questions please contact Operations & Environment Services at 250-427-9660.