Inspect Water Containers

Wilderness Survival Manuals > Field Hygiene and Sanitation > Appendix > Inspect Water Containers

EQUIPMENT NEEDED: None.

WHEN TO INSPECT WATER CONTAINERS:

Quarterly in garrison when not being used.

Prior to deployment.

Before filling at water distribution points.

Upon completion of use to ensure that all water has been drained from the container before storage.

STEPS OF PERFORMANCE:

UNIT WATER TRAILER:

Upon completion of use:

STEP 1: Drain plug and spigots:

Make sure that the drain plug has been removed and that all spigots have been opened to drain all water from the tank. Foul odors, bacteria growth, and rust will accumulate during storage if the water is not completely drained.

STEP 2: Manhole cover: Place a thin piece of wood under the manhole cover to provide ventilation. With the manhole cover and spigots open, air circulation will be allowed, thus drying the inside of the water trailer.

NOTE

See the technical manual on your water trailer for additional guidance.

Quarterly:

STEP 1: Manhole cover: Ensure the sealing gasket is in place, free of excessive cracks and dry rot. Cover should provide an effective seal.

STEP 2: Drain plug: Ensure it is operable; it should be removable without excessive effort.

STEP 3: Interior: Check surface for excessive cracks; check for signs of being used for storage of products other than water such as oil products, gasoline, or diesel fuel. Rust stains and other discoloration caused by common natural chemicals in water (iron or manganese) pose no health problem.

STEP 4: Spigots: Make sure spigots are clean and operable. Covers over spigots should open and close with ease. Spigot handles should operate freely.

NOTE

Questions concerning excessive interior cracks or chipping and use after storage of products other than water should be directed to PVNTMED personnel. Refer to the technical manual on your water trailer for maintenance instructions.

Before filling at water distribution points:

STEP 1: Check interior for gross contamination.

STEP 2: Check hose used to fill trailer. Water point fill hose should not come in contact with the ground. If the hose is lying on the ground, wash the end before use.

STEP 3: After filling, check manhole cover and drain plug to ensure that they are secure.

CAUTION

Personnel detailed to fill water trailers must be directed to fill the trailers only at approved water points.

COLLAPSIBLE FABRIC DRUMS/PILLOWS/ONION TANKS:

STEP 1: Interior: Check for dirt and other contamination; check for holes.

STEP 2: Fill holes: Check to ensure that fill holes are clean and covers are in place.

STEP 3: Exterior: Check to ensure the exterior is free of oils and other contaminants that may seep into the bag and contaminate the water.

LYSTER BAGS:

STEP 1: Interior: Check for dirt and other contamination; check for holes.

STEP 2: Cover: Check to make sure it fits. Check for holes.

STEP 3: Spigots: Make sure spigots are clean and in place.

STEP 4: Location: Elevate Lyster bags sufficiently to prevent contamination of spigots by wildlife.

NOTE

Always clean the Lyster bag prior to its first use and periodically thereafter with potable water.

WATER CANS: Check interior for contamination; if can has a fuel odor, such as gasoline, do not use it for drinking water.