Emergency Preparedness – Water Access During Crises in Arizona

1. What steps has the state taken to ensure that residents have access to clean drinking water during emergencies in Arizona?


There are several steps that the state of Arizona has taken to ensure that residents have access to clean drinking water during emergencies, including:

1. Emergency Response Plans: The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has created emergency response plans for water utilities and systems in the state. These plans outline procedures for addressing potential threats to water supply, such as contamination or disruptions in service.

2. Water System Monitoring: ADEQ conducts regular monitoring and inspection of water systems throughout the state to ensure compliance with regulations and to detect any potential issues that may arise.

3. Emergency Drinking Water Supplies: In the event of an emergency, ADEQ can provide immediate assistance by trucking in safe drinking water supplies to affected areas.

4. Emergency Funding: The state has allocated funding for emergency repairs and equipment upgrades for drinking water systems during natural disasters and other emergencies.

5. Public Education: The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) works closely with communities and local health departments to provide information on how to safely store and treat drinking water during emergencies.

6. Cooperation with Federal Agencies: In times of crisis, the state works closely with federal agencies such as FEMA, EPA, and the CDC to coordinate response efforts and provide additional resources if needed.

7. Infrastructure Protection: The state implements measures to protect critical infrastructure, such as water treatment plants and distribution systems, from potential threats like acts of terrorism or severe weather events.

8. Collaboration with Local Authorities: Local authorities play a crucial role in responding to emergencies within their jurisdictions, so the state regularly coordinates with them on planning and response efforts related to drinking water supply.

9. Communication Strategies: The state has implemented communication strategies before, during, and after emergencies to keep residents informed about any potential risks or advisories related to drinking water supply.

10. Continual Improvement: Arizona continually evaluates its emergency preparedness plans and makes necessary adjustments based on past experiences or new developments in the field to ensure the safest possible drinking water supply for residents.

2. How does the state maintain emergency water supplies in rural areas in Arizona?


The state of Arizona maintains emergency water supplies in rural areas through a variety of measures, including:

1. Reservoirs and storage tanks: The state has built and maintained reservoirs and storage tanks to store large amounts of water for emergency situations. These facilities are strategically placed in rural areas to ensure access to water during emergencies.

2. Groundwater wells: Many rural areas in Arizona rely on groundwater as their primary source of water. The state has established a network of groundwater wells that can be used during emergencies to supplement surface water supplies.

3. Interconnections between systems: The state encourages water utilities in rural areas to establish interconnections with neighboring systems. This allows them to share water resources during times of emergency.

4. Emergency response plans: The state requires all public water systems to have an emergency response plan in place that includes procedures for managing and supplying water during emergencies.

5. Drought contingency plans: In the event of drought, the state implements its drought contingency plans, which include measures such as conservation and rationing programs, as well as coordination and support from neighboring communities.

6. Emergency funds: The state has emergency funds available for rural communities to tap into during times of crisis. These funds can be used for repairs or upgrades to ensure access to safe drinking water.

7,. Assistance from the National Guard: In extreme situations, the state may call upon the National Guard for assistance in delivering emergency water supplies to rural areas.

8. Public education campaigns: The state conducts public education campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for and responding to emergencies, including having an adequate supply of drinking water on hand.

Overall, the state takes a proactive approach to ensuring access to emergency water supplies in rural areas by investing in infrastructure, promoting preparedness, and providing support when needed.

3. What resources are available for individuals with disabilities or special needs to access water during crises in Arizona?


There are several resources available for individuals with disabilities or special needs to access water during crises in Arizona:

1. Emergency Water Assistance Programs: There are programs in place that provide emergency water assistance to vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities and special needs. These programs vary by county, but they may include the distribution of bottled water or the delivery of potable water to homes.

2. Local Government Services: Many local governments have designated departments or agencies responsible for providing services to individuals with disabilities during disasters and emergencies. Contact your local government to inquire about their specific plans and resources for accessible water during a crisis.

3. Accessibility Requirements: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that all emergency shelters and disaster recovery facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes providing accessible drinking fountains or other sources of potable water.

4. Non-Profit Organizations: Several non-profit organizations, such as the American Red Cross, Team Rubicon, and Direct Relief, provide disaster relief services that cater specifically towards individuals with disabilities or special needs. These organizations may provide transportation services to access clean water during a crisis.

5. Personal Emergency Preparedness: It is important for individuals with disabilities and special needs to have an emergency plan in place that includes strategies for accessing clean water during a crisis. This may include having extra bottled water on hand or identifying nearby sources of potable water.

6. Community Assistance Programs: Some communities have established programs that allow residents who are unable to leave their homes due to disability or illness to receive free home delivery of safe drinking water during a crisis.

7. Disaster Hotlines: During a crisis, government agencies often set up hotlines specifically for individuals with disabilities or special needs. These hotlines can provide information on accessible shelter locations and other resources for accessing clean water.

8. Social Media: During disasters, social media platforms can be useful for staying updated on emergency notifications and connecting with resources in real time. Organizations may also use social media to communicate directly with individuals with disabilities or special needs.

9. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Guidance: The EPA provides guidance for emergency preparedness and response, including information on how to access clean drinking water during a crisis. This guidance is accessible to individuals with disabilities and special needs.

10. Emergency Management Training and Education: The Emergency Management Institute offers training and education programs specifically aimed at preparing individuals with disabilities and special needs for disasters and emergencies, including strategies for accessing essential resources such as water.

4. Has the state developed contingency plans for maintaining water access during natural disasters in Arizona?


Yes, the state of Arizona has developed different contingency plans for maintaining water access during natural disasters. The primary agency responsible for overseeing water resources and infrastructure in Arizona is the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). This department has developed a number of contingency plans to ensure continuous access to clean and safe water during emergencies, such as hurricanes, floods, droughts, and other natural disasters.

One key contingency plan developed by ADWR is the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which outlines procedures and responsibilities to be followed during emergency situations that may affect water availability or quality. This plan serves as a guide for responding agencies and allows for coordination between local, state, and federal agencies.

Additionally, ADWR has specific contingency plans for drought conditions that affect water supplies in different regions of the state. These plans include measures such as water conservation strategies, groundwater management plans, and short-term transfer agreements between users to ensure equitable distribution of scarce water resources during droughts.

In the event of flooding or other disasters that can impact water infrastructure, ADWR works closely with other agencies to develop emergency response plans. These plans include measures to protect critical infrastructure such as dams, levees, and canals from damage or failure that could interrupt the supply of water.

The state also collaborates with local governments to develop emergency response protocols tailored to their specific needs. For instance, after a major wildfire in 2017 threatened drinking water sources in northern Arizona communities, ADWR worked with local authorities to secure alternative sources of drinking water and develop long-term solutions for protecting these sources from future wildfires.

Overall, through these various contingency plans and collaborations with local agencies, the state of Arizona aims to maintain access to safe and reliable water resources even during natural disasters or emergencies.

5. How are alternative sources of water, such as rainwater harvesting or groundwater wells, utilized during emergencies in Arizona?


Alternative sources of water, such as rainwater harvesting and groundwater wells, are utilized during emergencies in Arizona as a way to supplement existing water supplies. These sources can also be used as backup options if the primary source of water is compromised or unavailable.

During droughts or other situations where surface water supplies are limited, rainwater harvesting can be an effective method for collecting and storing water for household and agricultural use. This involves capturing rainwater through various collection systems, such as rooftop catchment systems, and storing it in tanks or underground storage units. In emergency situations, this stored rainwater could be used for drinking, washing, and irrigation purposes.

Groundwater wells are also a significant source of alternative water during emergencies in Arizona. Many households and communities have private wells that can provide a secure supply even when surface water is scarce. In times of crisis, these wells can offer a reliable source of drinking and household water.

In addition to these methods of utilizing alternative sources of water during emergencies, the Arizona Department of Water Resources has developed plans for managing groundwater reserves in times of drought or shortage. This includes implementing groundwater pumping restrictions and promoting conservation efforts to maintain sustainable use of this essential resource.

Overall, alternative sources of water play an important role in helping address emergency situations in Arizona where traditional surface water supplies may not be sufficient.

6. Are there any community-based initiatives in place to support neighbors with limited access to water during crises in Arizona?


Yes, there are several community-based initiatives in Arizona that aim to support neighbors with limited access to water during crises, such as droughts or other emergencies.

1. WaterWISE (Water – Invaluable Service Everywhere): This program, run by the City of Tucson, provides emergency water assistance for low-income households that experience a loss of water due to a disruption in their water supply. The program helps families access drinking and bathing water through delivery or pickup services.

2. Community Action WASH Program: This program is run by the Community Action Agency of Southern Arizona and aims to provide emergency water and sanitation assistance for homebound seniors and individuals with disabilities who cannot access water independently during a crisis.

3. St. Vincent de Paul Water Emergency Assistance: St. Vincent de Paul offers financial assistance for those struggling to pay their water bills or experiencing an interruption in their water service in the Phoenix area. They also operate hydration stations that provide free bottled water during extreme heat events.

4. Neighborhood Mutual Aid Networks: These grassroots networks, often organized on social media platforms like Facebook, bring communities together to support each other during emergencies such as severe droughts or power outages. Some networks have specialized groups focused on coordinating efforts to ensure everyone has access to clean drinking water.

5. Local Food Banks: During times of crisis, local food banks often provide not only food but also bottled drinking water and hygiene items to those in need.

6. Water Conservation Education Programs: Many cities and towns in Arizona offer education programs aimed at promoting responsible and efficient use of scarce resources like water during times of crisis. These programs may include tips on storing clean drinking water or suggestions for reducing non-essential uses of household tap water.

7. How does the state address the issue of contaminated water sources during an emergency situation in Arizona?


During an emergency situation, the state of Arizona has several measures in place to address the issue of contaminated water sources:

1. Emergency Action Plans: The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has established Emergency Response and Compliance Programs which includes a Water Supply Contamination Emergency Response Plan. This plan outlines the procedures for responding to emergencies that affect drinking water supplies in the state.

2. Public Notification: If there is a known or suspected contamination of a public water system, the system operator is required to notify all customers within 24 hours. The notification will provide information on potential health effects and advise residents on appropriate precautions to take.

3. Alternate Water Sources: ADEQ, in coordination with local and federal authorities, may provide alternate sources of safe drinking water for affected communities during an emergency situation.

4. Bottled Water Distribution: In cases where there is widespread contamination and it is unsafe for residents to consume tap water, ADEQ may work with local authorities to distribute bottled water to affected areas.

5. Water Treatment: ADEQ has a network of certified laboratories that can test and analyze water samples for contamination. If necessary, they can provide guidance on appropriate treatment methods to make contaminated water safe for consumption.

6. Temporary Disinfection Systems: In some cases, emergency disinfection systems may be set up by ADEQ in order to treat contaminated sources of drinking water until permanent solutions can be implemented.

7. Coordination with Local Authorities: ADEQ works closely with local authorities such as emergency management agencies and public health departments to assess the situation, gather data and determine appropriate responses.

Overall, the state of Arizona takes the issue of contaminated water sources very seriously and has established comprehensive measures and protocols to address such situations during an emergency. These efforts are aimed at protecting public health and ensuring that safe drinking water is available for all residents in the state.

8. Are there designated distribution centers for emergency water supplies in each county within the state in Arizona?


Yes, the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, in partnership with state and county agencies, has designated distribution centers for emergency water supplies in each county within the state. These locations are determined based on population density and accessibility in case of a disaster or emergency where access to clean drinking water is limited.

9. Does the state have a communication plan in place to inform residents about where to access safe drinking water during crises in Arizona?


Yes, Arizona has a communication plan in place to inform residents about where to access safe drinking water during crises. The Arizona Emergency Response and Recovery Plan (ERRP) outlines the roles and responsibilities of local, state, and federal agencies in responding to emergencies, including those that affect drinking water. As part of this plan, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is responsible for communicating information on safe drinking water sources during a crisis.

ADEQ maintains a website with information on current water advisories and alerts in the state. In case of an emergency, ADEQ will provide public notices through various channels, such as news releases, social media, and notifications to local media outlets. The agency also partners with local emergency management agencies to disseminate information through community meetings, door-to-door outreach, and other means.

Additionally, Arizona has an Emergency Preparedness Kits program that allows residents to sign up for alerts and notifications from their local emergency management agency. These alerts include information on available safe drinking water sources during crises.

Public water systems are also required by law to have a contingency plan in place for providing safe drinking water during emergencies. This includes identifying alternative sources of potable water if the regular supply becomes contaminated or inaccessible. These plans must be communicated to customers through annual reports, special notices when appropriate, or other means outlined by ADEQ.

Overall, Arizona has established multiple communication channels to inform residents about where they can access safe drinking water during crises.

10. What partnerships does the state have in place with local businesses and organizations to provide temporary access to potable water during emergencies in Arizona?


The state of Arizona has several partnerships in place with local businesses and organizations to provide temporary access to potable water during emergencies. These include:

1. American Red Cross: The American Red Cross works closely with state and local emergency management agencies to provide safe drinking water to affected communities during disasters.

2. Salvation Army: The Salvation Army also partners with the state government to provide resources and support during emergencies, including clean drinking water.

3. United Way: United Way coordinates with local businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to provide relief services during emergencies, including access to potable water.

4. Arizona Water Association (AWA): AWA is a professional association of public works employees and provides assistance in coordinating response efforts for emergency water supply needs.

5. Local Utilities: Local utility companies often have agreements with the state government to provide temporary access to drinking water in the event of an emergency.

6. Bottled Water Companies: The state also has agreements with various bottled water companies that can quickly deliver clean drinking water to affected areas during disasters.

7. Non-Profit Organizations: Organizations such as Americares, Water Missions International, and Convoy of Hope work closely with the state government to provide clean drinking water during emergencies through their disaster response programs.

8. Retail Stores: Retail stores such as Walmart, Costco, and Sam’s Club have also partnered with the state government to donate bottled water for distribution during disasters.

9. Local Churches and Community Centers: During emergencies, local churches and community centers may open up their facilities as shelters and work with the state government to provide clean drinking water for those in need.

10. Public-private partnerships: The state has established public-private partnerships with businesses and organizations that have large-scale storage tanks or other resources that can be used for emergency water supply purposes.

11. How does the state prioritize distribution of emergency drinking water if supply becomes limited during a crisis in Arizona?


The state of Arizona has a multi-faceted approach to prioritizing distribution of emergency drinking water in case of a crisis. This includes:

1. Identifying and assessing the severity of the crisis: The first step is for the state to determine the type and scope of the crisis, as well as its potential impact on the population. This will help in determining which areas and communities are most at risk and therefore in need of prioritized water distribution.

2. Assessing available resources: The state will also assess the availability of emergency drinking water supplies, both within the affected area and from neighboring regions. This will help in understanding the extent to which supply needs to be rationed or redistributed.

3. Activating emergency response plans: Arizona has established comprehensive emergency response plans that provide guidelines for distributing drinking water during crises. These plans include protocols for coordinating with local authorities, identifying key distribution points, and mobilizing resources as needed.

4. Prioritizing vulnerable populations: Special attention is given to vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. These groups may have specific needs for clean drinking water and may require targeted outreach efforts.

5. Working with local organizations: The state also partners with local organizations such as community centers, religious institutions, and non-profit agencies to ensure that emergency drinking water is distributed efficiently and reaches communities in need.

6. Public education campaigns: To prevent panic and misinformation during a crisis, Arizona conducts public education campaigns that provide clear information about where and how to access emergency drinking water.

7. Implementing conservation measures: In case of severe shortages or limited supply, Arizona may also implement conservation measures such as restricting outdoor watering or non-essential uses of water to ensure an adequate supply for drinking.

Overall, the state’s priority is to ensure fair and equitable distribution of emergency drinking water while also addressing urgent needs and protecting public health during a crisis situation.

12. Are there regulations in place for private well owners to ensure their wells do not become a source of contamination during emergencies in Arizona?


Yes, there are regulations in place for private well owners in Arizona to ensure their wells do not become a source of contamination during emergencies. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has several programs and guidelines in place to protect private wells, including emergency response plans and outreach initiatives to educate well owners on best practices for well maintenance and protection.

In addition, ADEQ requires all newly constructed or repaired wells to meet construction standards that prevent contamination. Private well owners are also responsible for regularly testing their well water quality and maintaining their wells in accordance with state guidelines.

During an emergency, such as a natural disaster or contamination event, ADEQ works closely with local authorities to provide guidance and assistance to private well owners on how to protect their wells from potential sources of contamination. This may include implementing temporary safeguards such as disinfection procedures or providing alternative sources of drinking water until the situation is resolved.

Overall, ADEQ is dedicated to protecting the health and safety of Arizona citizens by ensuring the proper management and protection of private well water resources during emergencies.

13. How does the state handle potential price gouging of bottled water during crisis situations in Arizona?


In Arizona, potential price gouging of bottled water during crisis situations is regulated by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. According to the Consumer Protection Division, under the Arizona Consumer Fraud Act, it is illegal for businesses to charge excessive prices for essential goods or services during a state of emergency. This includes items such as food, water, ice and other goods that are necessary for the public’s health and safety. The law also prohibits businesses from raising prices more than 10 percent higher than the average price charged in the 30 days preceding the declaration of emergency. The Office of the Attorney General investigates complaints of price gouging and takes legal action against businesses found to be violating these laws. Individuals who suspect they have been a victim of price gouging can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office for investigation and potential prosecution. Additionally, following hurricanes or major storms, Arizona often sends resources such as bottled water to affected areas through its Emergency Management Division to ensure supplies are available at fair prices.

14. Is there a system in place for testing and monitoring the safety of emergency drinking water sources in Arizona?


Yes, Arizona follows the requirements set by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to ensure the safety of emergency drinking water sources. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is responsible for implementing and enforcing SDWA regulations in the state.

One aspect of this is regular testing and monitoring of drinking water sources. Public water systems in Arizona are required to have a water monitoring plan in place that includes routine sampling and testing at designated intervals. Results of these tests must be reported to ADEQ.

In addition, ADEQ conducts its own monitoring and testing program to ensure compliance with SDWA regulations. This includes inspections of public water systems, sample collection and analysis, and reviewing water system records.

If a potential emergency situation arises that may impact the safety of drinking water sources, ADEQ has protocols in place for responding and communicating with affected communities. This can involve issuing boil water advisories or providing alternative sources of clean drinking water.

Overall, ADEQ is responsible for ensuring that all public drinking water systems in Arizona meet health-based standards for safe drinking water.

15. Are emergency shelters equipped with enough clean drinking water for all evacuees in Arizona?

It is not possible to provide a definitive answer as the availability of clean drinking water in emergency shelters can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each shelter. In general, however, emergency shelters should be equipped with enough clean drinking water for all evacuees. This can include bottled water, water filtration systems, and/or access to a safe and reliable municipal water supply. It is important for emergency management officials to monitor and assess the availability of clean drinking water in shelters and to make sure that adequate supplies are replenished as needed.

16. Has the state established a network of volunteers or agencies that can provide assistance with distributing and delivering emergency drinking water in Arizona?


Yes, the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs has established partnerships with a variety of organizations that can assist with distributing and delivering emergency drinking water in times of need. These include government agencies such as the Red Cross, local fire departments, and volunteer groups like Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). They also work with businesses, non-profit organizations, and faith-based groups to help coordinate resources and assistance for distributing emergency drinking water.

17. How does the state address language barriers and ensure that all residents have access to information about safe drinkingwater sources during emergencies in Arizona?


The state of Arizona addresses language barriers and ensures access to information about safe drinking water sources during emergencies through various methods:

1. Translation services: The state provides translation services for important documents and information related to safe drinking water sources in multiple languages commonly spoken by residents, such as Spanish, Navajo, and Vietnamese.

2. Multilingual hotline: Arizona has a multilingual hotline that residents can call to obtain information about safe drinking water sources during emergencies. This hotline is staffed with trained operators who can provide assistance in different languages.

3. Public outreach: The state conducts public outreach programs to educate residents about safe drinking water sources and what to do in case of an emergency. These outreach initiatives utilize materials and resources available in various languages.

4. Local partnerships: The state works closely with local community organizations and leaders to disseminate information about safe drinking water sources during emergencies. These partnerships help reach diverse communities and ensure that accurate information is provided to all residents.

5. Emergency alerts: The governor’s office has systems in place to send emergency alerts via phone calls, text messages, emails, and social media posts in different languages during an emergency situation.

6. Bilingual staff: Many agencies responsible for ensuring safe drinking water sources have bilingual staff who can communicate effectively with non-English speaking residents during emergencies.

7. Language access plan: Arizona has a language access plan that outlines the strategies and procedures for providing language assistance services during emergencies.

Overall, the state of Arizona recognizes the importance of providing equitable access to information about safe drinking water sources regardless of language barriers. Through these efforts, the state strives to ensure that all residents have the necessary information to keep themselves and their families safe during an emergency related to drinking water.

18.Are there specific plans in place for addressing long-term disruptions to public water systems caused by natural disasters or other crises in Arizona?


Yes, Arizona has specific plans in place for addressing long-term disruptions to public water systems caused by natural disasters or other crises. These plans are developed and overseen by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and the Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM).

1. Emergency Response Plan: The ADEQ and ADEM work together to develop an Emergency Response Plan which outlines the roles and responsibilities of various agencies and stakeholders during a natural disaster or crisis. This plan is regularly updated and ensures a coordinated response to any water system disruptions.

2. Mutual Aid Agreements: The ADEQ also encourages water systems to enter into mutual aid agreements with their neighboring systems in case of an emergency. These agreements allow for the sharing of resources, equipment, and personnel during a crisis.

3. Contingency Plans: Public water systems are required to have contingency plans in place that outline how they will respond to emergencies or disruptions, such as power outages, equipment failures, or contamination incidents.

4. Infrastructure Resiliency Plan: The ADEQ also works with water systems to develop Infrastructure Resiliency Plans which identify potential vulnerabilities in the system and outline strategies for mitigating them.

5. Drinking Water Safety Plans: Arizona requires all public water systems to have Drinking Water Safety Plans in place which identify potential threats to their source water and establish strategies for maintaining safe drinking water.

6. Training and Exercises: The ADEQ conducts training and exercises for water system operators on emergency preparedness, response, and recovery procedures.

7. Funding Assistance: In case of major disasters or crises, the state may provide funding assistance to affected public water systems through programs such as the Drinking Water Revolving Fund or Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

Overall, Arizona has comprehensive plans in place for addressing long-term disruptions to public water systems caused by natural disasters or other crises to ensure safe drinking water is available for its residents at all times.

19.Is bottled water included in the state’s emergency preparedness supplies and provisions in Arizona?


Yes, bottled water is included in the state’s emergency preparedness supplies and provisions in Arizona. The Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs recommends having at least one gallon of water per person per day for emergency situations.

20. How does the state ensure that people experiencing homelessness have access to clean drinking water during an emergency in Arizona?


In Arizona, the following measures are taken to ensure that people experiencing homelessness have access to clean drinking water during an emergency:

1. Emergency Planning: The state has an emergency plan in place to address the needs of people experiencing homelessness during disasters or emergencies, including provisions for access to clean drinking water.

2. Disaster Shelters: Emergency shelters for people experiencing homelessness are required to provide access to clean drinking water. This includes ensuring that adequate supplies of bottled or potable water are available on-site for individuals and families sheltering there.

3. Emergency Water Distribution: In the event of a disaster or emergency, the state may set up temporary water distribution sites in areas with high concentrations of homeless individuals. These sites are stocked with bottled or treated water for distribution.

4. Mobile Water Trucks: In some cases, mobile water trucks may be deployed to provide access to clean drinking water in areas where it is not readily available. These trucks may also be used to deliver water directly to encampments or other areas where people experiencing homelessness gather.

5. Coordination with Non-Profit Organizations: The state works closely with non-profit organizations that serve people experiencing homelessness, such as soup kitchens and homeless shelters, to ensure they have adequate supplies of clean drinking water on hand during emergencies.

6. Public Education: To increase awareness and preparedness among the homeless population, the state conducts public education campaigns on ways to obtain and purify safe drinking water during emergencies.

7. Emergency Assistance Programs: For those who are unable to access clean drinking water during an emergency due to financial constraints, the state offers various emergency assistance programs that provide resources such as vouchers for purchasing bottled water or access to free or low-cost filtration systems.

8. Water Quality Monitoring: The state regularly monitors the safety and quality of tap water in public places where people experiencing homelessness congregate, such as parks and public restrooms, and takes action if any contamination is found.

Overall, the state of Arizona recognizes the importance of clean drinking water for all individuals, including those experiencing homelessness during emergencies. Efforts are continuously made to ensure that this vulnerable population has access to safe and reliable sources of drinking water in times of crisis.