In the event that a water use advisory is issued, residents should not use or drink the tap water under any circumstances, even if it has been boiled. The tap water may contain chemicals that are hazardous to human health, even if it is clear, odourless and tasteless. Tests will be carried out to determine the nature of the contamination.

Residents are required to use bottled water or drinking water provided by the city for all their needs.

Depending on the extent of the contamination, the city could take steps to distribute drinking water in your area (from an unaffected location by tanker truck, for example). Household water (not to be consumed) could also be supplied in the same manner. It is used for flushing and for watering plants. Please view the instructions that will be transmitted for complete details.

• Shut off all water sources.
• Notify clients that the water cannot be used and post this information in locations where water is still available, if applicable.

Has the water use advisory been lifted? Tests will be carried out to ensure that the tap water is potable and safe for drinking again.

Residents are advised to take the following additional precautions before drinking the water:

• Follow the specific rinsing instructions issued by the city based on the nature of the  contamination.
• Change the filters if you have a water treatment or filtration system (pitcher, faucet filter or under-sink filter, refrigerator water dispenser, etc.) by observing the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Empty, wash and disinfect coffee makers and ice-making machines.
• Follow the instructions transmitted for draining hot water tanks.
• Clean the aerator (the filter that unscrews at the end of the tap), when possible. Some taps may be different and may not have an accessible aerator.