The City of Stuart on Sunday, November 15, issued a precautionary boil water advisory for four commercial locations on Southeast Ocean Boulevard after a water service line break disrupted the municipal water system.

Addresses affected

The advisory applies to the following business addresses:

• 2223 Southeast Ocean Boulevard
• 2225A Southeast Ocean Boulevard
• 2225B Southeast Ocean Boulevard
• 2229 Southeast Ocean Boulevard

City officials warned that the break could allow disease‑causing organisms, including viruses, parasites and bacteria, to enter the water supply. While the system is being re‑pressurized and tested, the city strongly advises anyone at the listed locations to use only boiled tap water or commercially bottled water for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene.

City recommendations

In a statement, the city spokesperson outlined specific steps for businesses and their patrons:

• Boiling water: Bring tap water to a full rolling boil for at least one minute. Allow it to cool before use. Boiling is required even if the water has been filtered.
• Drinking and cooking: Use bottled water or boiled water for all consumption and food preparation.
• Brushing teeth: Use boiled or bottled water; do not use unboiled tap water.
• Dishwashing: Disposable plates, cups and utensils are recommended. If a dishwasher is used, ensure it has a sanitizing cycle or reaches a final rinse temperature of at least 150°F (66°C). Check the appliance manual for confirmation.
• Hand‑washing dishes: Wash normally with hot water, then soak in a solution of one teaspoon unscented liquid bleach per gallon of warm water for at least one minute. Air‑dry before reuse.
• Laundry: Washing clothes can continue as usual.
• Cleaning toys and surfaces: Use bottled water, boiled water, or a bleach‑disinfected solution.

The city added that these measures are an abundance of caution while water pressure is restored and quality tests are performed. Typical testing protocols take 48 to 72 hours to confirm that the water meets safety standards.

Health warning

Officials cautioned that untreated water could cause symptoms such as nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and headaches. Residents and business owners are urged to follow the guidance promptly to protect public health.

Updates will be provided as soon as the water system is cleared and normal service resumes. In the meantime, the City of Stuart encourages anyone with questions to contact the city’s water department.

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.