What is the difference between precautionary and mandatory boil water notices?

A Precautionary Boil Water Notice (PBWN) is simply a public statement advising customers to boil tap water before consuming it. PBWN’s are issued when an event, such as a water main break, has occurred and certain repair criteria could not be met, allowing for the possibility of the water to become contaminated. A PBWN is also issued to critical facilities (hospitals, doctors, schools, restaurants, etc.) anytime water pressure drops below 20 pounds per square inch in the water main. A PBWN does not mean that the water is contaminated but rather that it could be contaminated. Because the water quality is unknown, customers should assume the water is unsafe to drink and take the appropriate precautions. Issuance of the PBWN, under these circumstances, is required by the Florida Department of Health. If contamination is confirmed in our sample location(s), we would issue a Mandatory Boil Water Notice. During a Mandatory Boil water Notice, all affected customers must use one of the precautions listed below. This is similar to a PBWN, but in a Mandatory Boil Water Notice, it would be imperative that you do so.

Precautionary and Mandatory Boil Water Notice

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1. I moved into a new home and I am not sure about the building’s plumbing. Is there a way I can tell if the water quality at my faucet is as high-quality as the water provided by the FKAA to the meter?
2. Why is my water cloudy and what does it mean to have “air in the line”?
3. What makes ice cubes cloudy?
4. What are the drinking water standards?
5. How long can I store drinking water?
6. How often is my water tested?
7. Is it safe to drink from my garden hose?
8. What is the difference between precautionary and mandatory boil water notices?