The City of Flagler Beach issued a precautionary boil water notice to two areas on Sunday due to a repair being performed on the water main. Those residing on South Central Avenue and Ocean Palm Drive are affected by the notice, which is placed in situations where direct consumption or usage of tap water could come with risks.
The notice commenced at 1:00 pm Sunday, with a slated window of 72 hours during which it will remain in effect. The city advised that it may announce an extension to the time period if circumstances dictate. Tests are planned to ensure the safety of the water before the notice is lifted.
Precautionary boil water notices such as this latest one in Flagler Beach are issued when a loss of power or repair causes the system’s water pressure to cease its important function of keeping out potential pollutants and contaminants from the city’s water supply. Major storms and sudden damage to the system are common causes for notices like these to be issued. If such elements do enter the water, they have the possibility of causing illness or infection in those who come into contact.
Residents in the impacted area are advised by the city to bring water to a rolling boil for one minute before drinking it or using it to brush teeth, wash produce, or make ice. Alternatively, the city advises that water can be disinfected by 1/8th of a teaspoon of bleach into one gallon of tap water, before then shaking the mixture and letting it sit for half an hour. A quarter of a teaspoon should be used if the water appears to be cloudy, the release says. Water purification tablets or iodine are also said to be safe methods.
Bathing and showering using water out of the tap is safe, the city says, as long as the user does not consume the water in any way. Other practices which can help avoid the risk of contaminated tap water include using bottled water or carrying out daily tasks that use tap water in an area not affected by the notice.
“Businesses and non-residential sites should take steps such as posting notices at, or disabling water fountains and ice machines during the [notice],” the statement continues. “If you provide water to visitors or employees, use commercially produced bottled water for drinking or beverage preparation (coffee). Food service operations have additional requirements from their regulatory agency.”
The City of Flagler Beach advises residents with questions about the notice should call (386) 517-2042 for further information.
