Columbia
When is a boil water order lifted?

According to the Illinois EPA guidelines, water samples must be collected to test for bacteria in the distribution system. Water Quality samples are taken on the day when the issue (main break, etc.) has been corrected and then incubated 18 to 24 hours, as required by the EPA. Only after this period of time can test results be read. From beginning to end, this process to lift a boil order can take a couple of days to complete.

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1. What is a boil order?
2. How can I receive notifications when a boil order is in effect and has been lifted?
3. What actions do I need to take?
4. What other steps are recommended?
5. When is a boil water order lifted?
6. What should I do once the boil order is lifted?