Are there any other important drinking water guidelines I should follow after a major earthquake?
It's always best to play it safe when it comes to your drinking water following a disaster. Please keep the following "water-wise" tips in mind when considering your source and supply of emergency drinking water.

• Even if you haven't received word of a "boil water notice" after a disaster, if your tap water seems cloudy or has an unpleasant odor, purify it before drinking or do not drink it at all.

• Conserve your drinking water, even if your supply is not interrupted. Help by shutting off automatic sprinkler systems.

• If plumbing fixtures in your house are damaged and/or leaking, turn off the water supply to your house at the main shut-off valve. This valve is typically located in a meter box near the sidewalk/street.

• Immediately after a major disaster, consider closing the main household water shut-off valve to isolate your water supply. This could prevent contamination of internal plumbing and your water heater.

• If your water service is interrupted, shut off automatic sprinkler systems and turn off the water heater.

Show All Answers

1. How much water should I store?
2. Is bottled water from the grocery store suitable for storing?
3. More Water For Emergencies FAQs
4. Is it safe to store tap water for use during emergencies?
5. What type of container should I use to store the water?
6. How do I treat the tap water I am planning to store?
7. How often should I change my stored water?
8. I've used up my emergency water supply. Now what?
9. ACWD has issued a "boil water notice." What does this mean?
10. Can I purify my water with household bleach?
11. Are there any other important drinking water guidelines I should follow after a major earthquake?