Boil water notice

A boil water notice has been put in place in your area due to an incident. The incident could have affected your tap water. Due to this we recommend as a precaution to boil your tap water before using it.

Tap water to boil before using it

Any tap water that you might swallow must be boiled before you use it. This includes water for:

All drinking water including water for formula or pets

Rinsing and washing pots or utensils

Washing and preparing any food

Brushing your teeth

Taking medication

Making ice cubes

Do not use domestic water filters or water purification tablets during the notice. The filter should also not be replaced once the notice is lifted. The filter may concentrate any potential contamination.

Be careful when handling boiled water

Remember to take care when handling boiled water. From boiling, water can take 45 minutes to cool. Make sure it’s cooled before you use it.

Pans of boiling water can be very dangerous. If boiling water on the hob, leave it at the back with the handle safely away from the edge. Bear in mind, a wider pan of water will cool more quickly than a narrow, deeper pan, as the surface area is larger. You can also boil water using an electric kettle, or microwave.

If storing boiled water, it should be kept in a clean container in a fridge for no more than 24 hours. Don’t pour hot water into glass bottles as they could crack or shatter.

Please contact your GP or call NHS Direct on 111 if you feel ill after drinking tap water. This is especially important if the person affected is very young, elderly, or frail.

Person pouring water from a kettle into teacups

Water you can still use

You can still wash, shower and bathe using tap water but make sure no water is swallowed. Use soap when washing your hands and thoroughly dry them. Washing machines can also be used and dishwashers. Dishwashers must be used on a hot wash cycle.

Bottled water can be used instead of tap water. Exceptions to bottled water include:

Anyone who is immunocompromised. They will need to follow specific advice from their medical practitioner.
Bottled water high in sodium (Na). They are unsuitable for babies and small children. Refer to current NHS guidance for more information.
Any bottled water that was filled using tap water

A Thames worker turning off the water in the street

Keep up to date

We'll regularly provide updates on the incident. We’re also available 24/7 on 0800 316 9800 and you can message us on X (Twitter).

Priority Services Register

We'll send you bottled water if you're registered on our Priority Services Register. If you’re not registered, you can register online on our website.