Safe Drinking Water After a Flood

How does water become contaminated in a flood?

After a flood, assume that all water sources are contaminated until proven safe.
Contaminated water can cause people to become sick.

Do not use water that has a dark color, has a smell, is cloudy, or contains floating material.
There will be a public announcement over radio or television to boil the water. This is known as a "boil order."

Water can be purified at home or safe water can be purchased.
Water may either be boiled or regular household bleach may be added, such as Clorox or Purex brands or any store brand.
To boil, bring water to a rolling boil and keep it boiling for approximately 3 minutes. Pour water into disinfected drinking container (instructions for disinfecting containers provided below). Store in refrigerator if possible.
To use household bleach, strain the water through a coffee filter or cheese cloth to remove dirt and other particles. Use 1/8 teaspoon (or 6-8 drops from a dropper) of regular household bleach per gallon and let the water stand another 30 minutes.
Do not use more than the recommended amount of bleach. Large amounts can be poisonous.

Use clean plastic or glass containers such as clean soft drink bottles or clean canning jars that have tight-fitting screw caps. Do not use plastic milk jugs because they do not seal well.
Use clean disinfected containers only. Remember to disinfect them again each time they are refilled.

Fill container with one gallon of clean water.
Add one tablespoon of regular household bleach to the water in the container. (Let stand for 10 minutes, then pour out). Rinse the container with clean water.
Fill the container again with clean water, then cap the container for later use.