What is a Precautionary Boil Water Notice?
When there is a severe drop in water pressure, either due to a broken water line, loss of power and/or system pressure, or a scheduled outage for repairs, a Precautionary Boil Water Notice is issued.
When this happens, The Englewood Water District (EWD) is required to inform customers in an affected area. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection/Florida Department of Health require water suppliers to notify customers if conditions exist for possible contamination or contamination is found in samples. When the number of affected customers is limited, each affected household or business is informed individually using a printed notice hung on the front door. If a large area is affected, a press release about the precautionary boil water notice will be issued.
Once necessary repairs are made and a bacteriological survey shows the water is safe to drink, the precautionary boil water notice will be lifted in the same manner it was announced – either a printed notice hung on the front door or through a press release. Once the notice is lifted, it is safe to resume normal water use.
How to Disinfect Water
Boiling water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or washing dishes is advised. To ensure all pathogens are killed, bring water to a rolling boil and boil for at least one minute. Let cool before use to prevent burns. Bottled water may be used as an alternative.
You may visit the Florida Department of Health website at
Boil Water Notice Guidelines | Florida Department of Health (floridahealth.gov)
or call the Englewood Water District at 941-474-3217 for additional information.