Emergency Drinking Water: Urban Sources

When most of us think of running out of fresh water, most of us think of being lost in the desert or the woods. However, anyone who has lived through a natural or civil disaster knows that fresh water can run out real fast. An extended power shortage usually means that the water filtration compromised, meaning that running water becomes rapidly unsafe to use for bathing or drinking. Tougher circumstances can turn off the water tap itself. Although there's no since in hand wringing over an unlikely apocalypse, it doesn't hurt to know how to be prepared with urban sources of emergency drinking water.

Running Water

In many emergency situations, the water is still running but is not as well filtered as usual. Depending on the advice of local health officials, you may still be able to consume the water if you treat it with heat, iodine or a high quality water filtration device. For a detailed explanation on water purification techniques in both home and wilderness settings, check on my article on that topic located here on Associated Content.

Stockpiled Water

Even if you're probably never going to need it, having a pantry of supplies that you'll only need in an emergency is source of comfort. Although many of us remember to stockpile some extra food, not all of us forget to set aside fresh, potable water. This can range from a few boxes of plastic gallon jugs of water to specially designed water containment units designed to keep water fresh for an extended period of time.

Scavenging for Water

Depending on where you live, you might find that there are a fairly high number of sources for water near your home. If you're real lucky, maybe there is a fresh water spring nearby. Other sources might be streams and creeks, but remember to treat such water thoroughly before consuming it. In colder climates, you can collect snow and ice. During a rain storm, you might be amazed at how much water you can capture running off of you house with a decent rain harnessing system. Other options are creating a basic pit based solar still or collecting dew.

If you're stuck in an urban, last man on earth situation, take advantage of the daylight by scavenging for fresh water where the zombies are unlikely to look, such as large water heaters, water fountains and other large water containment devices. Just remember to watch your back.