MARHSFIELD, Mo. – In the aftermath of a disaster, the safety of your water supply might be in doubt. Bob Schultheis, a natural resource engineering specialist with University of Missouri Extension, says drinking water can be disinfected by ONE of the following methods:

1.     Boil water for three minutes in a clean container. Water must be at a rolling or vigorous boil for the three minutes.

2.     Mix 1/2 teaspoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach with 2 1/2 gallons of water. Let stand for at least 30 minutes before drinking.

3.     Add 2 drops of tincture of iodine to 1 quart water. After mixing thoroughly, allow to stand for at least 30 minutes before drinking.

Remember to use boiled or disinfected water to brush teeth.

For more information about safe drinking water in an emergency, see http://bit.ly/kDCrMw.

For links to disaster-related resources from MU Extension, including publications, news, feature articles and videos, see http://bit.ly/MUExtDisasterResources.