Know the source
Write down the safe source, what can affect it, and where current local notices appear.
90-Day Household Preparedness · Water · Page 8
Outdoor Water: Screen the Source
A printable field-guide page with practical household steps, planning context, and a direct link back to the full 90-day edition.
By Dan Whelan, founder of New World Survival
Researched from government agencies, university extension services, and other published sources. See our sources
Why this matters
Make the next decision clearer.
Before collecting outdoor water, consider the source, nearby contamination, weather, and any local warning. The safest source is still the one you can verify and treat appropriately for the actual risk.
Store it safely
Use suitable containers, protect them from heat and chemicals, and keep the reserve manageable.
Match the method
Use only the treatment method that fits the actual contaminant and the current advisory.
Put it on paper
A plan you can use and review.
Use this simple table to record the decision, the household-specific detail, and the next time you will test or update it.
| Question | Household answer | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| What water is safe now? | Record stored water and known potable sources. | Check containers and write the next refill or rotation date. |
| What could change that answer? | List local advisories, flood risk, and contamination concerns. | Save the official notice source and treatment plan. |
| Who needs more water or support? | Note pets, medical needs, heat, and mobility limits. | Adjust storage and carry plans before an event. |
Printable reference
The original field-guide page.
Use the original layout for its complete worksheet, visual table relationships, and print-ready details. The web article explains the same planning work in a responsive format.
Download the full guideFor current advice during an actual event, check relevant public guidance and local instructions.
