Ways of keeping water safe at home

How to Keep Water Safe at Home

By Babirye Namugula P.5B

At home, we use water for so many things — drinking, cooking, cleaning, and washing. But did you know that not all water is safe? To keep our water clean and safe at home, we need to be careful and follow some simple steps. Here’s how you can help make sure your family has clean, safe water to use every day!

💧 Boil Water Before Drinking

If the water you get is from a well, river, or other sources, it’s best to boil it before drinking. Boiling kills harmful germs and bacteria that could make you sick.
Tip: Ask an adult to help you boil the water for about 3 to 5 minutes, especially if you’re not sure if it’s clean.

🧴 Store Water in Covered Containers

To keep your water clean, always store it in a clean container with a lid. Water that is exposed to the air can get dirty with dust, flies, and germs.
Tip: If you don’t have a lid, use a clean cloth to cover the container and prevent insects or dirt from getting in.

🧼 Wash Your Hands Before Drinking or Eating

One of the easiest ways to make sure your water stays clean is by washing your hands before you touch the water. Germs on your hands can get into the water if you dip your hands into the bucket or container.
Tip: Wash your hands with soap and water before drinking or eating to keep germs away!

🌞 Keep Water Containers in a Cool, Clean Place

It’s important to store your water in a cool, shaded place away from sunlight. When water is exposed to heat, bacteria can grow and make it unsafe to drink.
Tip: Keep water containers away from the sun and in a clean, cool area where it can stay fresh.

🦠 Avoid Touching Water with Dirty Hands

When you’re getting water from the container, always use a clean cup or jug. Don’t dip your hands into the water, because that can contaminate the whole container.
Tip: Use a clean ladle or cup every time you take water, and remind others in the house to do the same.

🚰 Keep the Water Source Clean

Make sure that the place where you get your water (like a well, tap, or rainwater collection tank) is always clean and protected. If the water source is near rubbish, animal waste, or other dirty places, the water will be dirty too!
Tip: If you use a well or rainwater, make sure the area around it is free from trash and animals. Clean the water source regularly to keep it safe.

🧳 Filter or Treat Water If Necessary

If your water doesn’t look clean, you can use a water filter or water treatment tablets to make it safe. There are different ways to clean water depending on where it comes from.
Tip: If you have access to a water filter, use it to remove any dirt or chemicals. If you don’t have a filter, you can use water purification tablets.

💧 Don’t Waste Water

Water is precious, so we mustn’t waste it! At home, always use just the right amount of water for washing, cooking, and cleaning.
Tip: Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, and only fill your water glass halfway to avoid wasting water.

💙 Be a Water Protector at Home!

You can help keep your home’s water clean and safe by following these simple steps:

Boil and filter water if needed.
Keep your water containers covered and clean.
Wash your hands before touching water.
Store water in cool, clean places.
Protect your water source from dirt and waste.
Don’t waste water!