Being Prepared for a Water Emergency

Sometimes places will have a water shortage. This can also be called a drought. This can happen because the area did not get a normal amount of rain or snow, or if it is very hot. Areas can also have a water outage. This could happen for many reasons, like a broken pipe or pollution. Problems getting water are temporary, and this resource will help explain how you can be ready in case it happens

Gather Information

Have information ready ahead of time that you might need.

• ASERT’s Water Shortage Social Story
• ASERT’s Water Outage Social Story
• PA Department of Environmental Protection Drought Information page
  • This will say if your county is in a drought.
  • This will have tips for how much water to have stored away.
• Water emergency plans
  • You can make a plan with support staff or caregivers.
  • A plan can be added to Individualized Support Plans (ISPs).
• Water distribution points
  • A water distribution point is where you can get water in an emergency.
  • Your county emergency management office should be able to tell you where these are.

Get Supplies

It is helpful to have certain things ready ahead of time.

• Water bottles
  • Consider any water brands you prefer.
  • It is best to have one gallon to use each day.
  • Think about where you are storing the water. You might want to put some in the refrigerator.
• Dry shampoo is a way to wash your hair without water.
• Hand sanitizer is a way to wash your hands without water.

Prepare Contacts

Have contact information ready in case of an emergency.

• Contact information for your local water provider
  • This could be a company, township, or city.
  • You can call the water provider for updates.
  • You might also be able to sign up for alerts.
  • They will tell you if you need to boil your water to make it safe to use.
• Phone numbers in case of an emergency
  • Write down the phone numbers of caregivers or support you could call if you need help.
  • Write down the emergency services numbers for your area.