CLEARLAKE OAKS, Calif. – Officials have issued a boil water notice for parts of Clearlake Oaks following a water main break.
The California Department of Public Health, the Lake County Health Department and Clearlake Oaks County Water District on Tuesday advised residents on or near Orchard Shores Sub Division, Lake Village Estates, Jenson Road, Sulphur Bank Rd, Elem Indian Colony and 13537 E. Highway 20 to use boiled tap water or bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes as a safety precaution.
Officials caution residents in those areas not to drink the water without boiling it first.
Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute and let it cool before using, or use bottled water, the notice urged. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.
An alternative method of disinfection the district suggested for residents who are not able to boil their water is to use fresh, unscented, liquid household bleach.
To do so, add eight drops (or one-eighth of a teaspoon) of bleach per gallon of clear water or 16 drops (or one-quarter teaspoon) per gallon of cloudy water, mix thoroughly, and allow it to stand for 30 minutes before using.
A chlorine-like taste and odor will result from this disinfection procedure and is an indication that adequate disinfection has taken place.
Water disinfection tablets may also be used by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Officials said they will inform residents when tests show that water is safe to drink and boiling water is no longer necessary.
The problem is anticipated to be resolved within 48 hours, officials said.
For additional information, the district can be reached at 707-998-3322 or at http://www.clocwd.org/ .