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Boil Water Advisories What You Need to Know About Boil Water Advisories

At OMU, we take pride in delivering high-quality water to our community. The health and safety of our customers are always our top priorities.

In certain situations, such as routine maintenance, system repairs, pressure fluctuations, or other unexpected events, we may issue a Boil Water Advisory. These advisories are issued as a precautionary measure as we ensure that water quality standards continue to be fully met.

If a Boil Water Advisory is necessary, we are committed to notifying affected customers promptly and providing clear instructions every step of the way.

What Is a Boil Water Advisory?

A Boil Water Advisory is a precautionary notice issued to customers when there is a potential risk to water safety. This typically occurs after events that cause a significant drop in water pressure — such as a main break, scheduled maintenance, or other issues that could compromise the system.

OMU field crews and water quality staff follow guidelines set by the Kentucky Division of Water to determine when an advisory is necessary.

What to Do During a Boil Water Advisory

Customers in identified affected areas are encouraged to take the following precautions

Boil Before Use

Boil Water Before Use: Bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least three minutes before using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or washing food.

Don’t Use Ice or Dispensers

Avoid Using Chilled Lines and Ice: Do not use water from your refrigerator’s water dispenser or ice from ice makers.

Protect Vulnerable Individuals

Take Extra Precautions for At-Risk Individuals: Consult your health care provider for additional recommendations if anyone in your household is immunocompromised or is medically at risk.

Steps to Take Once the Advisory Is Lifted

When the Boil Water Advisory has been officially lifted, we recommend the following:

Flush Faucets

Run cold water from all faucets for 10 to 15 minutes until the water runs clear.

Discard Ice

Empty and discard ice from automatic ice makers for at least three cycles.

Run Dishwasher

Run a hot-water cycle in an empty dishwasher before washing dishes.

Run Washing Machine

Run both hot and cold cycles in an empty washing machine before doing laundry.

Water Safety for Pets

Pets should also be given boiled (and cooled) water during a Boil Water Advisory. Use the same precautions for them as you would for yourself.

How You’ll Be Notified

OMU uses several methods to notify affected customers of a Boil Water Advisory:

  • Door Tags: In most cases, door stickers will be placed at affected homes and businesses.
  • Website: In some instances, notifications and updates for Boil Water Advisories are posted on this website.
  • Text Alerts: In some instances, notifications and updates are sent via text messages. Sign up for Text Alerts.
  • News & Social Media: For larger advisories, information will also be provided to local news outlets and posted on OMU’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Learn More

If you have questions about Boil Water Advisories or OMU’s water system, please contact us.