If you have been told that your drinking water has been contaminated, the following procedures should be followed:
BOILING Boiling is the preferred way to purify water. Any water that is consumed directly or in the preparation of food should be boiled before using. Bring water to a rolling boil for 1 minute. Some of the water will evaporate. Let the water cool before drinking. Boiled and stored water will taste better if you pour the water back and forth between two clean containers to put oxygen back into it.
BATHING As long as soap is used, bathing and washing hands in tap water are acceptable. Sanitizing wipes that contain germ killers may be substituted for soap and water. Only boiled or bottled water should be used to brush teeth.
DISHWASHING After washing dishes and utensils with soap and hot water, rinse and soak for several minutes in a solution of one capful of chlorine bleach per gallon of water. The dishes should be air dried.
LAUNDRY Washing clothes is not considered a health risk, but the water may be dirty.
ICE MAKING Ice cubes made after the start of the emergency should be thrown away and replacements made with boiled or bottled water.
Toilets should be flushed, manually if necessary. Melted snow should not be used as a substitute for drinking water.
