During the actual flushing process, water customers may experience some disturbance in their usual water service such as a short-term decrease in water pressure or the appearance of “brown water.” Although the water should not pose a health risk, it is best to avoid drinking the water until it runs clear from the tap.
Avoid washing clothes while flushing is happening in your area and don’t wash if there is a brown tint to the water. Plan ahead and do your laundry over the weekend to avoid the possibility of having stained clothes. If you inadvertently have washed your clothes in “brown or discolored water,” do not use bleach. This will set the stains in your laundry.
Don’t prepare baby food or formula if the water is discolored. Use bottled water or pre-prepared food and formula. You can also boil the water for one minute to ensure safety.
It’s often a good idea to use water stored in the refrigerator to drink, even when the flushing program is over. This a good habit to get into in the case of an emergency.