Ask ELi: Is it Safe to Bathe During the Boil Water Order? Can I Give Tap Water to Pets?

Update: This article originally stated that it was "safe" to wash dishes because there was no risk from physical contact with the water. It is not safe to wash dishes in EL water, not because of external contact but because of water residue that might enter through the mouth. 

Eli has contacted DEQ employee Amy Lachance and asked the two questions that we’ve been asked several times since today’s boil water order: is there any risk from external contact with the water? Is it safe for pets to drink tap water?

According to Lachance, there is no risk from external contact. If that was a concern, she says, the order would have been a “No Contact” order. This means bathing should pose no health risk.

On the issue of pets, Lachance said that DEQ was not comfortable advising people because they deal with humans and not animals. She said that it was something individuals should decide for themselves, and that it might be helpful to contact a veterinarian for a more informed opinion.