Why are Boil Water Advisories issued?

A Boil Water Advisory is issued by officials anytime that all or part of the water system loses pressure or is “depressurized”. When a small section of the water system is affected, as it may be due to a water main break, water customers are notified via notices hung on their doors, through the CodeRED Emergency Communications Network or both methods. 

The water system is normally under pressure and the water is "pushing out" of water leaks or other outlets. When the system is depressurized, there is the possibility that contaminants may be “pulled in” to the water system. A Boil Advisory must be issued to let the public know of the possibility that microorganisms (bacteria) may be present and that by boiling the water as described, any living bacteria will be inactivated. A boil water advisory does not mean that contaminants have been found, only that conditions have developed that could result in a bacterial contamination. Under a boil water advisory, it is recommended that water be brought to a rolling boil and boiled for at least two minutes before consumption. Boil water advisories are a common occurrence for public water systems across the country.

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1. Where do I call to report a possible water main break?
2. My sanitary sewer is backing up. What should I do?
3. I have a question about my City of Fairfield Utility Bill.
4. Where can I report a leaking fire hydrant?
5. Why are Boil Water Advisories issued?
6. Why does the City of Fairfield have a Backflow Prevention Program?
7. Who do I call about storm sewer problems?
8. What is my responsibility regarding sewer as a home or business owner?
9. Is my home or property connected to the City's public water andor sewer system?
10. I need to repair or replace my water and/or sewer line. What should I do?
11. I see raw sewage coming out of a manhole. What should I do?
12. Does the Public Utility Department Laboratory preform all analysis of water and wastewater samples?
13. Who should I contact if I experience problems with my water?
14. I see little blue and/or green flags with the Public Utility Departments telephone number in my area. What does that mean?
15. How do I get information about the quality of the water produced by the Fairfield Water Treatment Plant?
16. Do I have to use Duke Energy as my electric provider?
17. How do I dispose of tree limbs or brush?
18. Who do I talk to about getting my garbage picked up?
19. How do I dispose of my old large appliances (e.g. washer, dryer, refrigerator, stove, dishwasher)?
20. How can I safely dispose of hazardous materials?
21. How can I safely dispose of unused medications or controlled substances?