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Hidden Water Supplies in an Emergency
Hidden water supplies are
unusual and emergency places to find water if your water supplies are gone.
Water supplies can become damaged in an emergency which can lead to
contamination of normal water supplies. Remember to treat all water of
uncertain purity before using it for drinking, food preparation, washing dishes,
brushing teeth or making ice.
What are some hidden sources
of water inside your home?
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Water can be drained from
the drain spout of a water heater. Be sure the electricity and/or gas are off
before opening the drain. Drain the water into a storage container.
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Water can be drained from
the pipes inside your home. Open a faucet on the top floor of your home. Next
go to the faucet at the lowest point in your home. Open the faucet and drain
out the water you need into a storage container.
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Water from your toilet
storage, or reserve tank, can be used if no chemicals have been used in this
tank. Do not use this water if it is blue in color because chemicals have been
used. |
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Water that has been placed
in ice cube trays in the freezer can be used.
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What are some hidden sources
of water outside your home?
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These sources can be
considered as a potential source; however, they may contain chemical or
bacterial pollutants which could be hazardous to your health.
Rainwater
Rivers and Streams
Ponds
Lakes
Natural Springs |
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Boil water from these
sources for at least 10 minutes prior to drinking.
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CAUTION:
Chemical
pollutants will not be removed by boiling.
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What water sources should be
avoided?
Avoid water that contains
solid materials, has an odor, or has a dark color.
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