if power goes out, are we supposed to stop using water?

[Anonymous]

sorry, new to this. is that the rule? can someone give me a quick primer on when to use/not to use water in these circumstances?

[Anonymous]

Your count/ town will advise if there is a boil advisory in place. Follow them on FB, twitter, listen to WTOP, etc.

[Anonymous]

If the water is unusable, you should hear an announcement.

The concern is if the water treatment plant loses power, not your home. And if there is flooding that can bring chemicals, bacteria, etc and contaminate the water supply.

[Anonymous]

County, not count

[Anonymous]

Make sure you are registered to receive text/email alerts from your county on your phone.

[Anonymous]

I wouldn't count on a warning from the government. If your water goes out or loses pressure, you shouldn't use if for drinking/eating/washing dishes/brushing teeth unless you boil it for at least one full minute. disinfect it with bleach http://water.epa.gov/drink/emerprep/emergencydisinfection.cfm or until you hear it is safe.

When Isabell hit in 2003, we lost water (we're in FFX Co.). When it came on, my DH was about to use it and I told him it had to be boiled first. He was disbelieving of me because nothing about it was announced (he did humor me and boiled it). It wasn't until at least a full day after it came on that we were advised water should be boiled first. He had also scoffed at me when I filled the bathtub with water before the storm and bought a foot powered sump pump. He thought I was overreacting - until he had to use everything I had prepped. Now, he doesn't question me.

[Anonymous]

penguinsix wrote:Most people will not notice any change in their water supply or availability. There are however many people in the outer suburbs who are on well systems and when the electricity goes out, their pumps go out and they have no water. Those with wells in low-lying areas also run the risk of the well becoming contaminated due to flooding. Along the coast of the Chesapeake Bay you'll see flashing sign boards warning people 'do not drink from your well if you have been flooded'.

This. When I was on a well, if the power went out-- no water. Now that I live in the city, it's not a concern.