Get a big pot. Fill it with tap water. Put it on the stove and crank the heat. You want a rolling boil, meaning big bubbles that don’t stop when you stir it.
Let it boil for a full minute (or three minutes if you’re above 6,500 feet in elevation—science is weird at high altitudes). Then, turn off the heat and let it cool completely.
Pour it into clean, covered containers. That’s it. You’re a survivalist now. High-five yourself. Just don’t burn your tongue on the first sip of coffee you make with it.
The Great Shower Debate (You’re Fine)
Can you shower? Yes! But be smart. Don’t let water run into your mouth, and if you have an open wound, keep it covered. The bacteria can’t get through your skin, so you won’t turn into a human sponge.
Kids and pets? Keep their heads out of the spray. A quick bath is fine, but avoid the “giant gulp” face. For pets, give them boiled-then-cooled water or bottled water to drink. They deserve safe sips too.
Outages and Boil Water Advisories | City of Hendersonville, NC
Dishwashing is also okay if you use hot water and then rinse with a little bleach solution (one teaspoon bleach per gallon of water) or just let dishes air dry completely. The bleach kills the bad guys after the wash.
