If the water supply to an establishment is shut off, what should the establishment do?

When an establishment experiences a shutoff in its water supply, it is essential to prioritize public health and safety. The correct action is to immediately close until the water supply is restored. Water is vital for several critical operations within a food establishment, such as food preparation, cleaning utensils and equipment, washing hands, and maintaining sanitary conditions. Without access to running water, the risk of foodborne illness and contamination increases significantly.

Continuing to operate without water could lead to unsafe food handling practices, which puts customers at risk. Providing bottled water may not adequately address all needs, such as handwashing or cleaning. While notifying customers is important, remaining open without water is not advisable as it compromises the establishment's ability to comply with health and safety regulations. Therefore, closing until the water supply is restored is the most responsible action for ensuring the safety and health of both patrons and employees.