Hurricane Sandy was a devastating storm that caused widespread damage and destruction along the East Coast. In addition to the destruction of homes and businesses, the storm also had a major impact on the safety of our drinking water. With flooding and power outages, many households were left without access to clean and safe drinking water. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 ways to ensure access to clean drinking water in your kitchen sink after Hurricane Sandy.Water Contamination After Hurricane Sandy
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, it is crucial to have a plan in place for purifying your water. This could include stocking up on bottled water, using purification methods, or utilizing emergency drinking water options. It is important to take action quickly, as contaminated water can lead to serious health issues.How to Purify Water After a Natural Disaster
In the event that your tap water is contaminated after a hurricane, it is important to have emergency drinking water options available. These could include bottled water, water filtration systems, or water purification tablets. It is important to have multiple options available, as some may not be feasible depending on the situation.Emergency Drinking Water Options
One of the most effective ways to purify water is by boiling it. Boiling water at a rolling boil for at least one minute can kill any harmful bacteria or viruses. This method is simple and requires minimal resources, making it a great option for post-disaster water purification.Boiling Water for Safe Consumption
Investing in a water filtration system can provide a long-term solution for purifying water after a natural disaster. These systems use various filters to remove contaminants from water, making it safe for consumption. Some popular options include reverse osmosis systems and activated carbon filters.Water Filtration Systems for Post-Disaster Use
In a situation where resources are limited, it may be necessary to use DIY water purification methods. These could include using basic household items such as cheesecloth, coffee filters, and activated charcoal to filter out impurities. It is important to research and follow proper guidelines when using these methods.DIY Water Purification Methods
The best way to ensure access to clean drinking water after a hurricane is to stock up before the storm hits. This could include purchasing bottled water, filling up containers with tap water, or investing in a water storage tank. It is recommended to have at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of 3 days.Stocking Up on Clean Water Before a Hurricane
In the event of a natural disaster, it is important to conserve water as much as possible. This could include using rainwater for non-drinking purposes, taking shorter showers, and avoiding activities that require a lot of water. By conserving water, you can stretch your supply and make it last longer.Water Conservation Tips During a Disaster
Another option for purifying water after a hurricane is by using bleach. It is important to use unscented bleach and follow proper guidelines when using this method. Generally, 8 drops of bleach per gallon of water can effectively disinfect it. After adding the bleach, let the water sit for at least 30 minutes before consuming.Using Bleach to Disinfect Water
After a hurricane, it is important to test the safety of your tap water before consuming it. This can be done by using water test kits, which are easily available at most hardware and home improvement stores. These kits can detect various contaminants and give you peace of mind about the safety of your tap water.How to Test the Safety of Tap Water After a Hurricane