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 Earthquake

Water main break

 Double-layered trash can liners over a 5 gallon bucket or lined in your empty toilet bowl

Change every 48 hours and place in garbage cans scheduled for pick-up
  • Wash cloth and water, standing in tub or shower
  • Baby wipes
  • Outdoor solar shower bag (if warm enough)
 Make sure you’re using clean water

If “outside” water is used, avoid eyes, mouth, and nose
Weeks Ice Storm damage

Tornado damage

Blizzard damage

Municipal black out

 Double-layered trash can liners over a 5 gallon bucket or lined in your empty toilet bowl

Change 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 [link to blog post on waste disposal]
  • Wash cloth and water, standing in tub or shower
  • Baby wipes
  • Outdoor solar shower bag (if warm enough)
  • Boiled-water bath (weekly if you have sufficient water stored)
 Solar shower bags

IBC Containers
Months Hurricane damage

Tsunami damage

Municipal disruption

 Build an outhouse or pit latrine in at a proper distance from water sources and food sources
  • Wash cloth and water, standing in tub or shower
  • Baby wipes
  • Outdoor solar shower bag (if warm enough)
  • Boiled-water bath (weekly if you have sufficient water stored)
 IBC Containers

Cisterns