In an emergency, boiling is the preferred method for making sure tap water is safe to drink. The following are acceptable alternatives if you cannot boil your tap water because of a power outage or loss of gas service:

• Use bottled water.
• Disinfect tap water with liquid household bleach. Bleach should be recently purchased, contain at least 5.25% hypochlorite, and contain no additions or fragrances. If water is clear, add 8 drops (1/8 teaspoon) of bleach per gallon. If water is murky, add 16 drops (or 1/4 teaspoon) of bleach per gallon. Stir bleach into water and let it stand for 30 minutes before using.
• Water purification tablets may also be used to disinfect tap water by following the manufacturer’s instructions.