Ensuring a Safe Water Supply
Residents that didn’t have time to stock-up on water, should note the following method of disinfecting water for household use.
Disinfecting water:
To ensure safe, clean water, use water purification tablets and water filters. Purification tablets contain iodine, halazone, or chlorine which kills most waterborne bacteria, viruses, and parasites. But due to parasites such as Cryptosporidium parvum, Giardia lamblia, and larger bacteria which are not killed by purification tablets, also use a water filter. Filters must be 1 micron absolute or smaller. Over time, purification tablets lose their potency, so maintain a fresh supply. Water sanitizing tablets for washing dishes can also be purchased (but don’t confuse the two).
Normal household bleach also kills most water germs. Read the label before buying and use only standard household bleach with no extra whiteners, brighteners, or scents. If the only active ingredient in the bleach is Sodium Hypochlorite, it is suitable for water sterilization.
How to do it:
Add ½ tsp. to five gallons of clear water or one tsp to five gallons if water is cloudy. Allow water to sit at least 30 minutes. If it lacks a slight chlorine odour, repeat process and let sit for 15 minutes.
If you want to pre-filter the water, stock up on large coffee filters, and pour water through them before adding the bleach.
When using chlorine or iodine tablets, follow package directions. The general rule is one tablet to each quart of water. Ensure tablets dissolve completely by mixing thoroughly with water. Let it sit for 30 minutes. Note that iodine should not be used by persons with iodine allergy, with active thyroid disease, or by pregnant women. If using liquid iodine, add five drops of two percent iodine to each quart of clear water. For cloudy water, add ten drops to each quart of water. Mix thoroughly and let is stand for 30 minutes.
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