Enclosure (5) to COMDTINST 6220.9A
PREPARATION OF EMERGENCY SOURCES OF POTABLE WATER
A. Overview. All water must be treated before using it for drinking, food preparation, cleaning or
personal hygiene unless its safety is absolutely certain. These measures will kill most microbes, but
will not remove other contaminants such as heavy metals, salts, and most chemicals. Before treating
water, allow suspended particles to settle to the bottom or strain them through a clean cloth.
1. Boiling. Boiling is the safest method of treating water, but is best used for relatively small
quantities of water. Boil water for at least 10 minutes. Some water will evaporate during this
process. Ensure water is cool prior to using.
2. Chlorination using household bleach. Use only regular bleach that contains 5.25% sodium
hypochlorite. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners. Add 8 drops of
bleach per gallon of water. If the water is cloudy, add 16 drops per gallon. Allow the water to
stand for 30 minutes. A slight, but distinct chlorine smell should be detected after 30 minutes. If
not, repeat the dosage and allow the water to stand for another 30 minutes.
3. Chlorination by Calcium Hypochlorite. Powdered calcium hypochlorite can be used to purify
large quantities of water. Detailed instructions on using calcium hypochlorite can be found in
Chapter 1 of reference (g).
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