Emergency call was received at approximately 12:00 am to low water pressure within the Pine Harbor Utilities drinking water system.  Upon arrival onsite and further review, it was discovered that there is a problem with the incoming commercial power.   The power company has been contacted and has provided an estimated time to respond between now and 4:00 am A system wide boil water notice is being issued.

As a precaution, until tests can be completed, we advise that all water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, washing dishes, or brushing teeth be boiled. A rolling boil of one minute is sufficient. As an alternative, BOTTLED WATER MAY BE USED.

In the event there is a loss of power and you cannot boil water, tap water can be disinfected by adding 8 drops (or about 1/8th teaspoon) of unscented household bleach (4-6% active ingredients) to each gallon of water, then mixing the water and allowing it to stand for a minimum of 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy, use 16 drops of bleach and a 30-minute contact time.

This “Precautionary Boil Water Notice” will remain in effect until a bacteriological survey shows that the water is safe to drink, at which point the boil water notice will be rescinded.

If you have any questions about the testing for bacteria, please contact U.S. Water Services at (727) 848-8292. Extension 217 Testing normally takes 2-3 days from the time water pressure is restored or the emergency condition is corrected to complete.