Boil Water Advisory Guidance for Restaurants
What should I serve patrons?
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Serve patrons tap water than has been boiled for 3 minutes, bottled water, or an alternative
beverage.

Can I use my appliances and water/soda dispenser?
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Do not use water from any appliance connected to your water lines.
o This includes water and ice dispensers in your refrigerator/freezer, coffee makers, ice
machines, and water/soda dispensers.

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Use boiled or bottled water to make coffee and ice.
Filters do not remove or kill bacteria or viruses.
When the boil water advisory is lifted, consult the owner’s manual and sanitize appliances.

What about ice?
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Do not use ice from ice trays, ice dispensers, or ice makers.
Throw out all ice made with tap water.
Make new ice with boiled or bottled water.

What should I do about preparing food and beverages? How should I wash fruit, vegetables,
and food preparation surfaces?
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Wash fruits and vegetables with cooled, boiled water or bottled water.
You may wash fruits and vegetables with tap water if you fully cook the fruits and vegetables
afterwards.
Bring water to a rolling boil for three minutes before adding food to cook.
Use boiled water when preparing drinks, such as coffee, tea, and lemonade.
Wash food preparation surfaces with boiled water.

What about washing my hands?
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Customers and employees can wash their hands with tap water and soap.

 How do I wash dishes during a boil water advisory?
Dishwashers are safe to use if the water reaches a temperature of at least 160°F or if the dishwasher
has a sanitizing cycle.
To wash dishes by hand:
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Wash and rinse the dishes as normal using hot water.
In a separate basin, add 1 teaspoon of unscented household bleach for each gallon of warm
water.
Soak the rinsed dishes in the water for at least 1 minute.
Let the dishes air dry completely.

I already drank the water. Will I get sick?
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Most people who drink this water will not get sick. If you do get sick, the symptoms are similar to
food poisoning: nausea, diarrhea, cramps, and possibly a mild fever.

What should I do if I have symptoms?
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The most important thing to do is avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid drinks with
caffeine, such as soda, coffee, and tea. If you are concerned about your health or the health of
a family member, contact your health care provider.

Where can I get more information?
DC Water Customer Service: 202-354-3600
DC Water 24-Hour Command Center: 202-612-3400
www.dcwater.com/emergencies
Additional Resources
Personal Water Use: CDC provides guidance on the amount of water needed for good health, as well
as its preparation and storage in preparation for and during an emergency.
Hygiene and Sanitation: CDC provides guidance on alternative hygienic practices when water is not
available or is contaminated.
EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791
Consumer Information: EPA provides information and guidance about drinking water quality,
emergencies, contaminants, public health issues, and treatment and storage.