Drinking Water

After an emergency, tap water may not be available or safe to drink. Individuals should prepare for emergencies by developing an emergency water supply for their home and by learning how to make contaminated water safe to drink.  

Individuals who use private wells, cisterns, or other rain-catchment systems for their water needs should also understand how to prepare for an emergency and disinfect these water sources after an emergency situation. Similarly, those in charge of community drinking water facilities should have plans in place in the event that service is interrupted.

Use the links below to help you prepare for and respond to drinking water needs in the event of an emergency.