How To Obtain Potable Water During An Environmental Or Weather Emergency

During an environmental or weather emergency such as an earthquake, hurricane, flood, and/or storm, the Department of Public Works in a city or county may declare that the public water supply in a specific area has become undrinkable. At that time, the Department of Public Works may implement an emergency water distribution plan to provide potable drinking water to residents in a specific area. During a water emergency, residents will be asked to cut back on their discretionary water usages such as laundry, dishes, and watering outdoor trees and plants. This plan will conserve tested and approved potable water and make it available for drinking. Here are several ways that you can obtain potable water during a crisis or an emergency:

Potable Water Distribution Sites:  The Department of Public Works will set up public water distribution sites where you can obtain potable water during a water emergency. Potable water will be distributed to residents in the form of bottled water. Water trucks will also be available to distribute potable water to residents who have their own plastic water containers. The Department of Public Works will distribute approximately 1 gallon of potable water per person/per day for drinking, food preparation, and personal hygiene related to health and safety. This amount can change depending on the specific type and duration of the water emergency in your location. 

Potable Water Delivery:  During a water crisis, approved water vendors may be asked by the Department of Water and Power to deliver potable water to hospitals, health clinics, and medical facilities. These deliveries will be made in certified stainless steel water trucks. You can ask these approved vendors to deliver potable water to your home during a water emergency. This water delivery will deliver potable water in an amount determined by the Department of Water and Power during a specific water crisis and/or emergency. Ask your local Department of Water and Power for a list of authorized water vendors in the city and county where you live. 

Potable Water Tanks:  As a resident, you can purchase a plastic potable water storage tank that can hold clean water for use during a water emergency. This storage tank can be installed above or below ground and can successfully store potable water in any location. The water in this tank should be tested regularly for water purity by the Department of Public Works, who can advise you as to a recommended schedule of purity testing. You can request to have an approved water vendor fill your potable water storage tank at any time prior to a water crisis or emergency. 

Water is a vital resource for everyone, especially during an environmental or weather emergency. Always try to have a supply of potable water on hand to cover the needs of your family for a few days or a week of a potential water crisis. If you are caught without potable water during a crisis, contact your local Department of Water and Power for a list of potable water distribution sites and authorized potable water vendors in your area. Always keep hydrated to keep healthy. For more information, contact a company like Jim's Water Truck Service.