PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Pinellas County Utilities officials have issued a boil water notice for southern barrier island customers after Hurricane Helene swept through the area.
According to a news release, the boil water notice was issued on Friday for customers from John's Pass to Fort De Soto Park. The notice specifically affects those living in St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island and Tierra Verde.
"These communities remain under the County's evacuation order, but the order
has been rescinded for all mobile homes and other Zone A residents," officials stated. "All of the barrier islands remain under the evacuation order at this time."
Residents in the affected areas are advised to use bottled water or boil tap water before using it for cooking, drinking or personal hygiene.
Residents should follow these steps to disinfect their tap water:
- Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil for at least one minute to ensure
bacteria, viruses or parasites are gone. - If the water is cloudy, filter it through a clean cloth, paper towel, or
coffee filter before boiling. - Water must be adequately cooled before it can be used for washing or brushing
teeth. Store the boiled water in clean, covered containers.
Officials added if there's no way to boil water, residents can add 1/8 teaspoon of unscented bleach per gallon of water, stir it well and let it stand for at least half an hour before using.
"This is less effective than boiling but will work if there is no way to boil water," officials said.
Those with questions should call the Utilities Customer Service at (727) 464-4000.
