Reporter: Lauren Compton l Videographer: Parker Slaybaugh
Lynchburg, VA - Valentine's Day dinner was a bit different for residents like Roy and Eleanor Garrett. They have to use bottled water to rinse food and dishes. The Garretts are among about two hundred households that have to boil their water because of nine water main breaks in the Hill City.
"We were lucky enough that we keep bottled water. We don't drink it that much, but we keep it," said Roy Garrett.
The advisory meant a few extra steps during the Garrett's Valentine's dinner, but their real worry is for their pets.
"I'm concerned about Ginger that maybe she got sick from drinking bad water," said Eleanor Garrett.
If you don't have a gas or electric stove to boil your water, city officials say you can use bleach to disinfect your water. Public health officials recommend adding 8 drops of bleach for every gallon of water. The water should be stirred and allowed to stand for at least 20 minutes before use. The notice could be in effect for the next 36 to 48 hours. But the Garretts are hoping it doesn't take that long.
"It will be aggravating. It would be aggravating," said Roy Garrett.
Garrett's wife says if it lasts too long, there won't be any home cooked meals like this.
"We'll probably eat out a lot," said Eleanor Garrett.
You do not have to worry about boiling your water if you did not receive a notice.
