A manager comes into the establishment in the morning to find that the water supply was shut off overnight. What action must he take first?

• A. Open the establishment and operate with bottled water
• B. Check the status with the water supplier
• C. Close the establishment and notify the regulatory authority
• D. Evacuate the building

Answer: (C)

Water is essential for proper handwashing, cleaning, and sanitizing all equipment. When the supply is lost, you cannot safely operate and still protect customers from foodborne illness. The first, most responsible action is to close the establishment and notify the regulatory authority so they can advise on safety steps, any required actions, and when you may reopen. Checking with the water supplier to learn when service will resume is important, but it doesn’t address the immediate public-health obligation or regulatory requirements. Using bottled water or attempting to run operations without a confirmed safe water source can create safety and compliance risks, and evacuation isn’t indicated unless there’s an immediate danger.