Never use a container that has held toxic substances, because tiny amounts may remain. Sound food-grade plastic containers, such as soft drink bottles, work well. Clearly mark the bottles with the current date and store them in a cool, dark place. To prevent growth of microorganisms, add four drops of soap-free, sodium hypochlorite bleach to every quart of water stored, stirring thoroughly before consuming. Ingesting a very small amount of this kind of bleach is generally harmless.
Consumers can also fill their bathtubs with water.
Should water supply be interrupted, consumers can use this water for hygienic purposes. Water stored in the bathtub should not be used for drinking water. Ice cubes can also serve as a ready supply of safe water in emergency situations. Consumers relying on well water may want to boil their water or rely on bottled water to protect against drinking water tainted by floodwater. AWWA strongly encourages consumers to be prepared and take steps to ensure their supply of safe drinking water.