Emergency Preparedness

Disaster can strike quickly and without warning.   Here in the Pacific Northwest the types of disasters we face are as diverse as our region.

Northshore Utility District urges everyone to prepare!

Storing Emergency Water in Plastic Bottles

Follow these steps for storing water in plastic soda bottles.

1. Thoroughly clean the bottles and caps with dishwashing soap and water, and rinse completely so there is no residual soap. If the cap has a paper liner inside be sure to remove it.

2. Sanitize the bottles by adding a solution of 1 teaspoon of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to a quart of water. Mix the sanitizing solution in the bottle so that it touches all surfaces. After sanitizing the bottle, thoroughly rinse out the sanitizing solution with clean water.

3. Fill the bottle to the top with regular tap water. Add 1/8 teaspoon or approximately 5 drops of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to the water.

4. Tightly close the container using the original cap. Be careful not to contaminate the cap by touching the inside of it with your finger. Place a date on the outside of the container so you can know when you filled it. Store in cool, dark place.

5. Write a date on the bottle. Water that has not been commercially bottled should be replaced every six months.

* Water can also be treated with water purification tablets that can be purchased at most sporting goods stores

For more information visit:  www.Ready.Gov  and www.Ready.gov/water

Additional Emergency Preparedness Links (clickable)

Regional Public Information Network

 
Emergency Services
Coordinating Agency