Loss of water supply
A burst main, contamination or drought can stop or restrict tap water.
How it can spread
- No tap water, or a boil or do-not-drink notice
- Cooking, washing and flushing become difficult
- Harder for babies, carers and people with medical needs
Before
- Keep 3 litres of bottled water per person per day, for at least 3 days.
- Know who your water company is and save its number.
During
- Check your water company’s website for updates and bottled water stations.
- Use stored water for drinking and food first, then hygiene.
- Follow boil-water or do-not-use notices exactly. Boiling does not make every kind of contamination safe.
- Never drink from rivers or streams.
When it comes back
- Run the cold kitchen tap until the water is clear.
- If it looks, smells or tastes odd, check with your water company before drinking it.
Official information
Checked against official guidance on 28 Oct 2026. In immediate danger, call 999.
Next: Gas leaks and carbon monoxide