Boil Water Advisory

Important information regarding preventive measures

A boil water advisory is issued when there is a confirmed or potential risk of microbiological contamination in the drinking water supply. This precautionary measure is intended to protect public health and prevent the ingestion of water that may contain harmful microorganisms.

An advisory may be triggered by a loss of pressure in the distribution system, detection of indicator bacteria such as fecal coliforms or Escherichia coli, infrastructure failure, or any event that may compromise microbiological water quality.

This advisory is temporary and preventive in nature. It is not related to the presence of lead in drinking water.

Please note that the Town of Hampstead will issue notices through its alert system to inform residents.

Mandatory measure while a notice is in effect

Bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before consumption or use bottled water.

This instruction remains in effect until an official lift notice is issued.

What you must do

Use boiled (1 minute) or bottled water for:

Drinking and beverage preparation
Infant formula and baby food
Washing and preparing raw foods
Preparing foods requiring minimal cooking
Making ice
Brushing teeth and rinsing mouth
Giving water to pets

Discard:

Ice cubes
Infant formula prepared prior to advisory
Previously prepared beverages

Permitted uses without boiling

Tap water may be used directly for:

Foods requiring prolonged boiling
Dishwashing with hot water and detergent (dry thoroughly)
Dishwasher on hottest cycle
Laundry
Showering or bathing

Prevent young children from swallowing bath water.

Possible Symptoms

The presence of indicator bacteria suggests that harmful microorganisms may be present. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Seniors, young children, pregnant individuals and immunocompromised persons are more vulnerable.

Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe.

Household treatment devices

Water softeners and most household filters do not disinfect water.

Unless certified for microbiological disinfection, boiling remains required.

Schools, businesses and institutions

Facilities must:

Inform clients
Close drinking fountains
Post notices near accessible taps

Lifting of the advisory

A boil water advisory is lifted only after:

Extensive water testing
Confirmation from public health authorities

After lifting:

Run cold water for 5 minutes in all taps
Repeat for showers, outdoor taps, ice and water dispensers
Clean and disinfect coffee makers and ice machines
Replace water filters according to manufacturer instructions