What to do when a boil water notice has been issued:
Visit Island Health for full information on boil water notices.
How to boil tap water
Tap water should be boiled for one minute. Use any clean pot or kettle. Kettles that have automatic shut offs are acceptable.
After boiling, let the water cool by leaving it on the counter or in the refrigerator in covered containers. After water is boiled it can be stored in food grade containers at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
You can bring back flavour by shaking water in a container, pouring the water between two containers, and/or adding a pinch of salt.
Boiled water is required for:
- Drinking purposes: This includes all beverage concentrates such as fruit juice and iced tea where water is added.
- Food preparation: This includes washing fruits and vegetables that will not be cooked. Water used as an ingredient does not need to be boiled prior to use, providing it will be brought to a boil during the cooking process.
- Coffee machines: Coffee machines usually produce water heated to about 70 to 80 degrees Celsius, which is sufficient to destroy pathogens. This temperature must be maintained for a sufficient amount of time to ensure that all harmful organisms are destroyed. Therefore, let the coffee stand for at least five minutes before drinking.
- Brushing teeth: This includes daily oral hygiene such as cleaning dentures
- Infant formulas: Formulas should always be prepared by using boiled tap water or bottled water that is boiled.
- Making ice: It is important to note that freezing does not destroy most pathogens. Bacteria and viruses can survive in frozen products for long periods of time. Discard any ice made from contaminated or potentially contaminated water.
- Fruit and vegetable washing: Boiled water should be used to wash all produce that to be eaten raw.
- Home canning: To be safe postpone home canning until the boil water notice has been rescinded.
- Beer and wine making: To be safe postpone beer and wine making until the boil water notice has been rescinded.
- Water for pets: Veterinarians recommend that drinking water for pets including dogs, cats, birds and reptiles should also be boiled. Information on water quality for livestock can be accessed at the BC Ministry of Environment water quality objectives website.
Get notified!
Sign up for Cowichan Alerts to stay in the know about boil water advisories as well as other emergencies, weather events, and highway closures.