Safe drinking water is a top concern after a natural disaster

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

In the wake of recent severe storms across Oklahoma, finding a safe water supply is a priority.

“There’s an increased risk of disease if the drinking water comes from unsafe or unclean sources,” said Barbara Brown, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension food specialist.

Generally, www.ready.gov recommends having on hand 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and cooking.

Commercially bottled water is the safest, most reliable source in an emergency and has an indefinite shelf life. But, clean, usable water also can be found in your home from pipes, the water heater, ice cube trays and other beverages.

Juices from canned fruits and vegetables count, too.

Do not drink reconstituted frozen juices unless it is certain the water being used is safe.

Meanwhile, water from swimming pools and waterbeds should not be used because it has been chemically treated.

To store water in your own bottles, use food-grade plastic or glass containers that have been thoroughly cleaned with dish soap and water.

Two-liter soft drink bottles can be reused for this purpose, but the bottles should be sanitized first, using 1 teaspoon of nonscented liquid household chlorine bleach per 1/4 gallon of water.

“Avoid plastic jugs or cardboard containers that had milk or juice in them previously because milk protein and fruit sugars can’t be completely washed away and the risk of bacterial growth increases when water is stored in them,” Brown said. “Not to mention, cardboard leaks easily and isn’t designed for long-term storage.”

Once properly cleaned, fill bottles with tap water. Avoid letting the bottle come in contact with the tap and tightly close the original lid without touching the inside of the cap with your fingers to avoid any contamination.

Label each container as drinking water and include the date, then store in a cool, dark place.

To decontaminate a water supply, try water purification tablets, a commercial water treatment unit or add 1/4 teaspoon of unscented chlorine to each gallon of water and let it stand for 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy, repeat the process and let it stand for another 15 minutes. If the water remains unclear, throw it out.

Another option is to add 20 drops of tincture of iodine per gallon of water or boil the water for 5 to 10 minutes, cool and swish back and forth to improve the taste.

For more information, contact the nearest county Extension office.