Can You Tell One Water Advisory From Another?

At some point, most of us have received a water advisory warning that our tap water may be unsafe to drink. These advisories range from simple boil orders to "Do Not Use" alerts that prohibit any contact with the water.

Understanding these warnings—and how to respond—can make all the difference in an emergency.

Why Do Water Advisories Happen?

Water contamination can result from:

✔ Extreme weather & natural disasters – Flooding can introduce bacteria, chemicals, and other pollutants.

✔ Burst water pipes – Breaks can allow contaminants to seep in.

✔ Water treatment failures – Malfunctions or contamination at treatment plants can compromise safety.

Types of Water Advisories & What to Do

1. Boil Water Advisory

The most common advisory, this means your tap water must be boiled before drinking or cooking.

How to safely boil water:

1. Fill a pot with tap water (if cloudy, filter it through a cloth or coffee filter first).
2. Bring it to a rolling boil for 1 minute (or 3 minutes if above 6,500 feet elevation).
3. Let it cool before drinking or storing.

🚫 Do NOT drink from appliances connected to your water line (e.g., refrigerators).

2. Do Not Drink Advisory

Issued when boiling won’t remove harmful contaminants (such as chemicals or toxins).

Avoid using tap water for:

🚫 Drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, washing produce, making ice, or feeding pets.

✔ You may be able to use it for other tasks, but follow official guidance.

3. Do Not Use Advisory

The most severe warning—avoid any contact with the water, even on your skin.

🔴 Do NOT use for drinking, cleaning, bathing, or any purpose.

This happens when the water is contaminated with toxins, chemicals, or even radioactive materials.

Staying Safe During a Boil Advisory

✔ Handwashing: Use soap & water for at least 20 seconds. If unavailable, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

✔ Showering/Bathing: Safe, but don’t swallow the water.

✔ Dishwashing:

• Use disposable plates & utensils when possible.
• If using a dishwasher, ensure it has a sanitizing cycle (150°F+).
• For hand-washed dishes, soak them for 1 minute in water mixed with 1 tsp of bleach per gallon.

✔ Laundry: Safe to wash clothes as usual.

✔ Cleaning: Use bottled or disinfected water.

✔ Pets: Only give pets boiled or bottled water.

A Reliable Water Solution: The 4Patriots Sun Kettle

When the power goes out or water contamination strikes, you need a way to boil water safely.

The 4Patriots Sun Kettle is a solar-powered water heater that:

✅ Boils water in minutes – No electricity, batteries, or fuel needed.

✅ Uses free solar energy – Works anytime the sun is shining.

✅ Keeps water hot for hours – Ideal for drinking, food prep, first aid, & cleaning.

Click here to add the Sun Kettle to your survival stockpile.