No water or unsafe tap water: what to do, step by step

Taps not working. Below: what to do right away, what next, when to call 112 and what to avoid. The same instructions are in the free SurvivalZone app and work without internet.

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First, right now

If water is still running, fill every bottle, pot and the bath.
Drinking water comes first: about 2 litres per person per day. Keep the rest for hygiene.
Read the water company or council notice carefully: can you drink the water after boiling, or not at all?

Then

If the notice mentions bacteria, boil water for at least 1 minute and let it cool covered.
Check official updates for water tankers or distribution points.
Flush the toilet with a bucket of water from the bath. Use wipes and hand gel for washing hands.
Use bottled water for baby formula.

When to call 112

Signs of dehydration in a baby or older person: no urine, lethargy, confusion. Also severe symptoms after drinking the water.

What not to do

Don't boil water if the notice mentions chemical contamination. Boiling does not remove it.
Don't drink water from rivers, ponds or ditches without treating it.

Keep it on your phone

SurvivalZone is a free app for every emergency, with no account and no app store. It works without internet and shows the nearest shelters and help points, local radio, a 72-hour plan and a mountain trip planner.

Open the SurvivalZone app

Other scenarios

Sources

Official sources are checked automatically every day. Last check: 2026-10-18.

General guidance only; it does not replace the emergency services. If a life is in danger, call 112.