WEDC Technical Brief No. 44: Emergency water supply

This is an overview of the principles of providing water in emergency situations. It outlines the planning procedures necessary for ensuring adequate supply, rather than focussing on design.

As well as food, shelter and medical aid, providing clean water is usually one of the highest priorities in the event of an emergency. It should be considered alongside immediate sanitation measures, however, which are just as important in controlling many of the most common diseases found in disaster situations. (See WEDC Technical Brief No. 38: Emergency sanitation for refugees)