As a mother of two, Robin Funsten understands the challenge of bathing her 2-year-old without the toddler swallowing water. However, this concern has intensified for her recently. Following the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene a month ago in the Southeast United States, Funsten, along with over 100,000 residents relying on city water in western North Carolina, is currently under an indefinite boil water notice. This situation arises as workers engage in cleaning sediment from reservoirs and conduct water quality assessments. Locals have reported unpleasant water experiences, describing it as having a strong chlorine smell and its appearance as brown or yellow.
With many water systems across the U.S. aging and climate change exacerbating natural disasters, experts predict that instances of water advisories will likely be on the rise. David Dyjack, executive director of the National Environmental Health Association, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the current uncertain times, not only in Asheville but in relation to climate change and unforeseen storms affecting broader regions.
Boil water notices are issued when there is a risk of harmful microbes in the drinking water. It’s crucial to distinguish these from do-not-drink advisories, which address issues with toxic chemicals that pose health risks if ingested or inhaled, and do-not-use advisories, where even touching the water can be potentially hazardous. For a “do not drink” advisory, the recommendation is to solely consume bottled water, while a “do not touch” advisory requires reliance on bottled water for all activities.
Funsten articulated how confusing water safety guidelines can be, especially given the murky water situation. “Since it remains so unclear, I prefer to be safe than sorry,” she commented, preferring to shower at a facility that uses an alternative water source rather than from the tap.
Experts stress that residents should always adhere to the safety instructions provided by local authorities, as these protocols can differ based on specific circumstances and personal health risks. Additionally, individuals can make personal choices tailored to their comfort and safety, as Funsten did.
According to Natalie Exum, an environmental health scientist at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the priority is clearly avoiding tap water consumption. “The main focus needs to be on water that should be boiled before it’s ingested, due to the potential for microbial contamination,” she stated.
To support residents who are facing boil water advisories, the CDC has outlined several guidelines, starting with boiling water. They recommend bringing water to a severe rolling boil for a minimum of one minute. If you’re situated at altitudes over 6,500 feet (around 1,981 meters), you should boil the water for a full three minutes. It’s important to allow the boiled water to cool down before drinking or giving it to pets. Bottled water emerges as a safe alternative during these advisories, particularly for households reliant on private wells that might have been flooded or damaged; locals are advised to consult health officials for testing advice before using such water.
When it comes to food preparation, boil water should be utilized for drinking, making ice, and cooking. For instance, while boiling pasta, ensure the water is boiled for at least one minute before adding the noodles. Fruits and vegetables should also be washed using boiled and cooled water.
The CDC states that for handwashing during a boil water advisory, it may be permissible to use tap water with soap. However, following local directives is crucial. Dyjack suggests employing a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content after washing with tap water. He highlights the critical nature of handwashing during such advisories.
If an individual has an open wound or rash, it’s vital to keep it clean and covered to protect against infection from contaminated water exposure.
For dishwashing, use boiled water if washing by hand. Alternatively, wash dishes as usual with detergent and hot water, then ensure to soak them in a separate container with bleach—one tablespoon of unscented bleach for every gallon of water—for no less than one minute. Premium dishwashers that boast a sanitizing cycle or reach temperatures of 150°F (66°C) are considered generally safe, although local guidelines may differ, such as Asheville’s recommendation for 170°F (77°C). Checking the manufacturer’s manual can clarify the dishes’ sanitizing capabilities.
Regarding showering or bathing, under a boil water advisory, it’s generally safe to bathe as long as you avoid swallowing water and any shaving nicks. However, for anyone with an open wound, CDC’s Jasen Kunz recommends seeking an alternative source for bathing or boiling and cooling the water beforehand.
When brushing teeth, always use boiled and cooled water or bottled water.
It’s typically safe to do laundry unless explicitly told otherwise by a “do not use” notice. Residents should note that there may be sediment in the water that could stain clothing, so ensure all garments are thoroughly dry before wearing them.
Special precautions are advised for pregnant individuals, the elderly, infants, or those with compromised immune systems. Experts encourage sponge baths for babies and young children to mitigate the likelihood of swallowing water. Dyjack advises against using tap water for showering or bathing for vulnerable groups.
According to the CDC, breastfeeding remains the best feeding method during a boil water advisory. If formula feeding, opt for ready-to-use formulas if available. If making formula is a necessity, always use cooled boiled water or bottled water.
While a healthy individual may recover from accidentally consuming contaminated water, Exum warns that those with vulnerabilities face a higher risk of illness, dehydration, or additional symptoms, making it crucial to avoid actions that may result in hospital visits.
The call for improved communication amongst water utilities is significant. Dyjack suggests that local government should facilitate discussions to address residents’ concerns through public forums, podcasts, websites, or by implementing a 24/7 water hotline. “Putting a face on the issue and enabling community dialogue can lead to collective solutions,” he remarked.
Lastly, Funsten highlighted the added burden of having to boil water for many tasks, which has altered daily routines and added to the stress of managing this situation. Perinatal psychologist Katherine Hyde Hensley noted that the mental strain of living with non-potable water has left many feeling overwhelmed, particularly as they try to help others cope. Exum reassured that although water restoration might take longer than electricity after a disaster, “It will come back. You will be okay… Just aim to get through each day.”
