How to treat water for household use
THE Ministry of Health is advising people to store adequate water for each family member as the country prepares for the impact of Hurricane Matthew.
After heavy rain and flooding, water can become contaminated and so people should ensure that they treat water for domestic use to prevent diseases and maintain good health, the ministry said in a news release Friday.
Water should be treated before it is used for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making drinks, preparing food, washing dishes and utensils.
Water can be made safe by treating with household bleach or by boiling.
To make water safe by bleaching, the following is recommended:
• For one litre of water (one quart) add 2 drops of bleach mix well and leave for 30 minutes.
• For 20 litres of water (five US gallons) add 1/2 teaspoon of bleach, mix well and leave for 30 minutes.
• For 170 litres of water (45 US gallons) add 4 1/2 teaspoons of bleach, mix well and leave for 30 minutes.
To make water safe by boiling, allow water to “boil up” for one minute before removing from the fire.
Cover and allow cooling.
