Cairns Regional Council

Environment, Water & Waste

What is a Boil Water Notice?

Sometimes the chlorination and filtration system may not be able to adequately filter and disinfect the water. This increases the risk of microbiological contamination. CRC Water & Waste regularly takes water samples to test for E.coli, a microbiological contamination indicator. Whilst E.coli itself is generally not harmful, it is an indicator of the level of coliforms that may cause gastro-intestinal complaints.

When a notice is issued, drinking water should be brought to a rolling boil for 2 minutes and allowed to cool before drinking. When a boil water notice is in place, householders in affected areas should use boiled water for drinking, cleaning teeth or gargling, washing un-cooked foods (such as salads or seafood) and making ice. Children should take boiled or bottled water to school. Dishes should be washed in hot soapy water or in a dishwasher. Most importantly remember that "Hot Water Burns Like Fire. Water at 60 degrees celsius (NB this is less than the temperature of boiling water) can cause a major burn in less than a second. It is very important to prevent hot water burns by keeping hot water away from children and older people.

Current Boil Water Notices in Place at:

  • Dagmar Heights (indefiniete ongoing - being a raw bore water supply with no treatment process)