EMERGENCY DISINFECTION OF DRINKING WATER

USE ONLY WATER THAT HAS BEEN PROPERLY DISINFECTED FOR DRINKING, COOKING, MAKING ANY PREPARED DRINK, OR FOR BRUSHING TEETH

IF THE AREA AROUND YOUR WELL HAS BEEN FLOODED, OR YOU BELIEVE YOUR WATER MAY BE CONTAMINATED:

1. Use bottled water that has not been exposed to flood waters if it is available.

2. If you don't have bottled water, you should boil water to make it safe. Boiling water will kill most types of disease-causing organisms that may be present. If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths or allow it to settle, and draw off the clear water for boiling. Boil the water for one minute, let it cool, and store it in clean containers with covers.

3. If you can't boil water, you can disinfect it using household bleach. Bleach will kill some, but not all, types of disease-causing organisms that may be in the water. If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths or allow it to settle, and draw off the clear water for disinfection. Add 1/8 teaspoon (or 8 drops) of regular, unscented, liquid household bleach for each gallon of water, stir it well and let it stand for 30 minutes before you use it. Store disinfected water in clean containers with covers.

4. If you have a well that has been flooded, the water should be tested and disinfected after flood waters recede. If you suspect that your well may be contaminated, follow the well disinfection procedure or contact the Health Department at 676-6724.

Please note that this emergency disinfection procedure is meant to address bacterial contamination only.  If you suspect your water has been contaminated by fuel or other chemicals do not try to disinfect.  Use only bottled water.

Media Contact:
Daniel Gibson
Joint EOC PIO
360-398-1705

Updated 1/8/09

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