[mom-from-missouri]

The bit about the hot water heater being off, is that in some areas of the country as well as overseas, some water contains bacterias which can grow when the hot water heater gets turned off, and the water is left in a tank with no movement, or air circulation and kept at a semi warm temp. Normally a small amount of a bacteria can be in the water, and will still pass inspection if the level is below so many parts per million. But, if it gets at a certain temp for a certain amount of time, it "breeds", In some areas of the country, it is not a problem. In other places, it can be deadly. Call your local county health or extension center. They will ask you your water source for starters--is it well or city water. If it is well water, they may ask for a sample. In some parts of Missouri this is a major issue for people on well water. I used to have a daycare center, and the health dept tested the water from the water tank for bacteria, as well as from the sinks. Well water can tend to be more of a red flag, as bacteria can enter it and since it is often untreated (city and rural water systems test and add chlorines and other chemicals to kill bacterias), can cause problems. (farmers bury dead animals in some states-and it could get into your water source), chemicals get dumped....etc. Their have been numerous cases in the past 20 years of major health problems arising from hot water heaters being turned off--a daycare in Kansas City comes to mind, and a cruise ship who had isses several years back. Ever washed clothes in warm water and forgot about them for a day in the washer? You get that whiff of mildew when you open it?