As a precautionary measure, residents within the City of Poway should boil their tap water before drinking it or using it for cooking until further notice.
Due to the recent storm event it is believed that the potable drinking water system has possibly been compromised. As a precaution, the City of Poway is advising residents to boil tap water or use bottle water for drinking and cooking purposes. Crews are working around the clock to restore normal water service.
“We are taking all of the necessary steps to address this situation,” said City Manager Chris Hazeltine. “Restoring normal water service is our top priority.”
Poway residents first reported discolored tap water on Friday, November 29. Staff tested the water at homes where the initial calls came from, and in the Poway water distribution system for chlorine residuals, which is an important water quality indicator, and found the water to be well within standards. However, since the water discoloration appeared to be citywide, Poway water officials notified the State Water Resources Control Board of the situation and all parties determined a boil water advisory was in the best interest as a precautionary measure.
The City of Poway provides water service to approximately 50,000 residents. To date, the City of Poway has never issued a boil water order.
Boiling water kills bacteria and other organisms. To avoid health problems, do not drink tap water without boiling for one minute and letting it cool. Or, use bottle water until the precautionary boil water advisory is rescinded. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, and food preparation until further notice.
Bottled water will be provided at Lake Poway beginning Sunday, Dec. 1 at 7 a.m.