Water System Maintenance Notice
BCWS issues these precautionary notices when there is a possibility that contamination may get into the water main. Examples would be a loss of water pressure in the main (below 20 psi) or repairing a water main. These precautionary notices usually last 20 to 48 hours.
The Ohio EPA does not require these notices if repairs are made in accordance with American Water Works Association (AWWA) standards. BCWS procedures are based on AWWA standard C-651 for repairs.
BCWS tests water samples for total coliform and E. coli after all repairs or pressure loss. These notices are issued while waiting for the test results.
Depending on sample results, the notice can be extended or changed to a boil water order. If either of these happens a new notice will be issued to all affected connections.
Why do only parts of a neighborhood receive an advisory?
Neighboring homes may be connected to different water mains or be separated by valves in the main. BCWS tries to limit the advisory areas by isolating water lines or rerouting water before making repairs.
Under a Water System Maintenance Notice, it is your decision whether or not to take the extra precaution of boiling water you will consume.
This precaution may be necessary for people with compromising health issues, infants and the elderly. Please consult your health care professional.
Optional boiling: Boil the water vigorously for one minute. Bring the water to a full, rolling boil, and then start timing.
Water used for consumption includes drinking water, water used for cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or other activities where water could be swallowed. It is not necessary to boil water for external uses such as laundry, bathing or washing dishes. However, dishes should be dried thoroughly before use.
An alternate water supply could be bottled water or a filtration system certified to remove bacteria & viruses; not all filter systems are capable of removing bacteria and viruses so consumers should check their system’s manufacturer’s certificate.