February 8, 2010: A Precautionary Boil Water Notice was was issued to 80 accounts on Big Richard Rd, Ravensview, Sandstone, and Rock Drive today. A leak in the main was found and Talquin had to valve down the water to repair. This is in the same area as the Precautionary Boil Water Notice that was rescinded on Saturday, February 6, 2010.
WHAT TO DO WHEN THERE IS A PRECAUTIONARY BOIL WATER NOTICE
When there is a loss in water pressure, either due to a broken water pipe or a scheduled outage for repairs, a Precautionary Boil Water Notice (PBWN) will be issued. If the number of affected members is small, then each member will be informed individually using a printed notice hung on the front door. Otherwise, the notice will be provided for broadcast from the local radio and/or television station.
Water pressure keeps unhealthy pollutants from entering the underground pipes that bring drinking water to your house or business. When the pressure is lost, either due to a broken water main or a scheduled outage, contaminants can seep into the pipes. This might allow pathogens (disease-causing germs) into the water that can cause illness if one drinks it or prepares food or beverages with it. So, as a precaution, it is important to disinfect tap water to kill any bacteria or viruses that may have entered the water.
Under a precautionary boil water notice, water used for consumption can be disinfected by any one of the following methods:
- Bringing water to a rolling boil and hold it there for one (1) minute.
- Using water purification tables or iodine available at most sports and camping stores..
- Purchase commercial bottled water for consumption and food preparation.
Additional information can be found online at http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/water/manual/boil.htm.
Consumption includes brushing teeth, washing fruits and vegetables, and homemade ice. Tap water may be used for showering, baths, shaving and washing, so long as care is taken not to swallow or allow water in eyes, nose or mouth. Children and disabled individuals should have their bath supervised to ensure water is not ingested. The time spent bathing should be minimized. Though the risk of illness is minimal, individuals who have recent surgical wounds, are immunosuppressed, or have a chronic illness may want to consider using bottled or boiled water for cleansing until the notice is lifted.
Businesses and non-residential sites should take steps such as posting notices at, or disabling water fountains and ice machines during the PBWN. If you provide water to visitors or employees, us a commercially produced bottled water for drinking or beverage preparation (coffee). Food service operations have additional requirements from their regulatory agency.
After the water system is repaired, and the pressure is restored in the pipes to your home or business, the precautionary boil water notice will remain in effect for one to several days while bacteria tests are conducted to assure the safety of the water. The notice will be lifted (rescinded) only after tests prove the water is safe to drink. When a small number of members are affected, the rescind notice will be delivered similar to delivery of the boil water notice. Otherwise, the media will be provided information updates and you should listen for this important information on the radio and/or from the television.
The employees of Talquin Electric Cooperative, Inc., your water provider, take great care in assuring that your water is safe to drink. We appreciate your cooperation with the precautionary boil water notice to protect public health during this difficult time. Please call us if you have questions or concerns. The County Health Department can also assist you with answers to questions.
