What action must be taken if a public water system fails to meet monitoring requirements?

When a public water system fails to meet monitoring requirements, it is crucial for the safety of the community that customers are immediately informed. Notifying the public through a daily newspaper ensures that the information reaches a wide audience and effectively communicates any potential health risks associated with the water supply. This form of notification aligns with regulations that dictate the importance of transparency in public health matters and maintaining community trust in water safety.

While other notification methods, such as emailing customers or informing only the state or the USEPA, might reach certain individuals, they do not guarantee that the entire affected population will be informed. Utilizing a daily newspaper ensures compliance with public notification requirements and maximizes awareness among all consumers of the water service. This proactive communication allows individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health and water use.