Scenario
When the tap runs cloudy: water interruption and boil notices
Burst main, treatment issue, or boil-water advice
If your supplier announces a shut-off or boil notice, follow their instructions—rules vary by incident. Do not drink floodwater.
What to check at home first
Many homes already have bottled water or clean, sealable bottles you can fill before a known interruption. Wet wipes and hand sanitiser help when washing water is limited. Official checklists suggest about 3 litres of drinking water per person per day for three days; hygiene and cooking need more.
Stay on official alerts
In Scotland, Ready Scotland points to free text alerts from Scottish Water for supply interruptions. Elsewhere, use your water company’s app, text service or website. Keep the supplier number on your paper contact list.
Storage without drama
If you need dedicated carriers, choose food-grade containers you can lift and stack in a flat. See our water storage criteria. Rotate stored water on your six-month kit review.
Sources
- Prepare – Get prepared for emergencies
- Ready Scotland – Find and share information
- National Resilience / Be Ready checklist (PDF)
Last reviewed 14 November 2026. Re-check campaign URLs before major updates.