In a Disaster: Treat Contaminated Water

During National Preparedness Month, the Los Angeles Fire Department reminds you...

When water is of questionable purity, its easiest and safest to use bottled water for drinking and cooking. When not available, its important you know how to treat potentially contaminated water.

In addition to having a bad odor or taste, water from questionable sources may be contaminated by microorganisms - including bacteria and parasites that cause diseases such as dysentery, cholera, typhoid and hepatitis.

All water of uncertain purity should be treated before use.

We suggest you use one or more of these treatments:

• Filter: Filter contaminated water using a piece of cloth, paper towel or coffee filter to remove solid particles.
• Chlorinate:
• Add 8 drops (1/16 teaspoon) of pure unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water. Double the amount of bleach if the water is cloudy. Stir to mix.
• Let stand 30 minutes.
• If it smells lightly of chlorine, you can use it. If it does not smell of chlorine, discard it and find another source of water.
• Boil: Bring water to a rolling boil for at least five full minutes at sea level. A rolling boil is a vigorous boil that cannot be stopped by stirring. Add one minute for each 1,000 feet altitude above sea level. Double the boiling time if the water is cloudy, and be sure to use a heat source that does not increase your risk of fire.

Swimming pool and flood water can be contaminated by toxic chemicals. Do not attempt to treat pool, spa or floodwater - and be careful not to contaminate yourself or utensils with impure water.



Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department