It's Hurricane Season in Hawaii PSA

How to Store Drinking Water for an Emergency

Preparing for an Emergency

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emergency water storage - water bricks
emergency water storage - storing water
Water should be stored in clean, disinfected containers, which come in a variety of shapes and sizes including traditional bottles and stackable storage bricks or blocks.


What does a Water Shutoff Valve Look Like?

The water shutoff valve typically comes in two styles: knife and knob.

  • Knife Style Handle: This is a straight handle that, when open, runs parallel to the pipe. It usually has a metal stop on it so that the handle only turns in one direction. To shut the water off, turn the handle a quarter turn.

    knife cutoff valve and regulator
     
  • Round or Nut Knob: You should be able to grip this handle in the palm of your hand. Turn the knob counter-clockwise a few turns to shut off the water.

    water cutoff valve knob  water cutoff valve knobs

What about the Water Meter Box?

The water meter box, which is owned and maintained by the Board of Water Supply (BWS), is located on street side near your property and usually under a metal cover. It should only be touched by its employees. Please keep the area around the water meter box serving your property is clear of any personal items or debris so that BWS personnel can access it when needed.

blocked-water-meter-car blocked-water-meter-rubbish

How Will I Know My Water is Safe to Drink after a Disaster? 

This information is to being provided should it become necessary for customers to boil water. The Board of Water Supply (BWS) will notify the public if this action is needed.

To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking, and for making ice should be boiled and cooled prior to consumption. The water should be brought to a vigorous rolling boil and then boiled for three minutes.

Updated: 07/17/2020