EMERGENCY WATER

Water sources in your home:

If a disaster catches you without a stored supply of clean water, you can use the water in your hot-water tank, pipes, and ice cubes. As a last resort, you can use water in the reservoir tank of your toilet (not the bowl).

To use the water in your pipes, let air into the plumbing by turning on the faucet in your house at the highest level. A small amount of water will trickle out. Then obtain water from the lowest faucet in the house.

To use water in your hot-water tank, be sure the electricity or gas is off and open the drain at the bottom of the tank. Start the water flowing by turning off the water intake valve and turning on a hot-water faucet. Do not turn on the gas or electricity when the tank is empty.

How to store water:

Store your water in thoroughly washed plastic, glass, fiberglass, or enamel-lined metal containers. Never use a container that has held toxic substances or milk (it's virtually impossible to get a milk container clean enough to store drinking water). Plastic
containers, such as soft drink bottles, are best. You can also purchase food-grade plastic buckets or drums. Seal water containers tightly, label them, and store in a cool, dark place. Rotate water every six months.

Emergency outdoor water sources:

If you need to find water outside your home, you can use these sources (be sure to purify the water before drinking it): rainwater; streams, rivers and other moving bodies of water; ponds; lakes; and natural springs. Avoid water with floating material, an odor, or dark color. Use saltwater only if you distill it first. You should not drink flood water.

Having an ample supply of clean water is a top priority in an emergency. A normally active person needs to drink two quarts of water each day. Hot environments can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need even more. You will also need water for food preparation and hygiene. Store a total of at least one gallon per person per day. You should store at least a three-day supply of water for each member of the family. A two-week supply for each family member would be even better!

If supplies run low, never ration water. Drink the amount you need today and try to find more for tomorrow. You can minimize the amount of water your body needs by reducing activity and staying cool. Avoid foods that are high in fat and protein, and don't eat salty foods since they will make you thirsty.