Water Sources in an Emergency

  1. Stored water including bathtubs and extra water containers filled before a forecast disaster.
  2. Canned and bottled juices.
  3. The liquid found in canned fruits, vegetables, and meats. Canned broth.
  4. Hot water heater (not the boiler in your home heating system) – turn off the power that heats the tank and let it cool. Place a container under the drain valve at the bottom of the tank to empty the tank.
  5. Toilet tank – the water in the tank, but not the bowl, is safe to drink unless chemical treatments have been added to the tank.
  6. Water pipes – turn off water valves to all the toilets. Release air pressure into the plumbing system by turning on the highest faucet in the house. Then drain the water from the lowest faucet. When water comes back on and fills the pipes, slowly open the toilet valves to avoid damaging the toilets and refill the tanks.
  7. Rivers, creeks, streams, ponds, lakes – water should be clarified and purified before using. Do not use saltwater unless you have a water distillation unit. Do not use water contaminated with toxic chemicals or fuels.
  8. Snow and ice – melt, clarify, and purify before using.
  9. Rainwater – can be collected in buckets, plastic trashcans, and rain barrels. Place containers under downspouts and roof valleys to catch more water. Clarify and purify water before using.
  10. DO NOT use water in a waterbed for drinking.
  11. Swimming pools and hot tubs – water should be clarified and purified and only used temporarily due to carcinogenic chemical compounds that can, and usually do, form in swimming pools. If pools or hot tubs have been contaminated by flood waters, do not use the water for drinking. If other water is available for drinking and cooking, use purified pool and hot tub water for personal hygiene, cleaning, and other related uses.