If pressure is lost in the water supply system, contamination of the system can occur. Pressure can be lost when a pump goes down or a situation occurs (such as an extensive leak) that requires us to shut down the system. Although loss of pressure does not mean the water is contaminated, it does mean that pathogens may have been able to enter the water system.
To ensure the water supply in ORO is safe, water samples are collected over several days and sent to an independent lab for testing. During this time, a Boil Water Notice is put in place. Once two clear test results are received from the lab, the Boil Water Notice can be dismissed. This process can require several days to a week.
What to Do During a Boil Water Notice
A Boil Water Notice means that the drinking water could contain pathogens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that water be brought to a rolling boil for one minute before it is consumed in order to kill protozoa, bacteria, and viruses.
Bring tap water to a rolling boil, allow it to boil for at least one minute, and then cool before using. Use boiled or bottled water for drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth, and preparing food.
You can use the tap water to shower and do laundry.
How Do I Know If a Boil Water Notice Is in Effect?
If a Boil Water Notice is required, the ORO Management team uses several methods to notify community residents when a notice is put in effect and when it is no longer needed:
- A notice is posted on the entrance sign by the guard house and at the clubhouse.
- A notice is emailed to all ORO property owners on the owners email list.
- The Rental Coordinator notifies all renters in the park through the Rental Program.
- A notice is posted on the @OROalerts account, which is published in the Alerts section on the homepage of the ORO website. Anyone can also sign up with Twitter to receive these alerts as text messages or notifications on their cellphone.
- Residents often share these notices in their Facebook groups.