Why are boil water advisories issued? How long do you need to boil water during an advisory?

 Why are boil water advisories issued?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), local health authorities issue boil water advisories when the community water supply is (or could be) contaminated with germs that can make you sick.

These boil water advisories often result from unplanned events like water line breaks, treatment disruptions, power outages, and floods, per the New York State Department of Health.

How long do you need to boil water during an advisory?

Boiling is the safest method for making water safe for drinking or cooking. "In a large clean pot or kettle, the water should be brought to a rolling boil for one full minute," Tamika Sims, PhD, senior director in food technology communications at the International Food Information Council, tells Health. "Before you drink or expose your skin to the water, be sure to let it cool down to a safe temperature."