What really happens when water isn’t working in my home?
Sanitation runs a close second to getting pure drinking water. When the water stops, so does toilet use and bathing as we normally do. Remember that even power outages can affect the city getting water to your tap. This is one of those times where answering, “How long?” will guide what you need to do.
Do you think water will be out for…
| Time | Actual Scenario | Use for Toilets | Use for Bathing | Recommendations |
| Days | EarthquakeWater main break | Double-layered trash can liners over a 5 gallon bucket or lined in your empty toilet bowlChange every 48 hours and place in garbage cans scheduled for pick-up |
|
Make sure you’re using clean waterIf “outside” water is used, avoid eyes, mouth, and nose |
| Weeks | Ice Storm damageTornado damage
Blizzard damage Municipal black out |
Double-layered trash can liners over a 5 gallon bucket or lined in your empty toilet bowlChange every 48 hours and place in garbage cans scheduled for pick-up
IF trash service is disrupted, proceed to burying your waste in an acceptable location |
|
Solar shower bagsIBC Containers |
| Months | Hurricane damageTsunami damage
Municipal disruption |
Build an outhouse or pit latrine in at a proper distance from water sources and food sources |
|
IBC ContainersCisterns |
