Start with water suitable for drinking
Use a source that current local guidance or qualified testing considers suitable for drinking. Do not treat a nearby public point, clear appearance, or familiar taste as proof that a source is safe.
If the supply has been interrupted or a local authority has issued an advisory, follow its instructions and arrange another source if advised.
Prepare clean, covered serving containers
Wash hands before handling drinking water and use clean food-safe containers. Keep jugs, tanks and coolers covered when not being served, and place them away from waste, chemicals, dust and direct handling of food.
Use a tap or clean serving utensil where possible. Avoid dipping hands, cups or an unclean ladle into a shared container. Wash reusable containers after the event and let them dry as directed.
Use care with ice and shared cups
Make or obtain ice from water suitable for drinking and keep it covered and handled with a clean scoop. Do not use bare hands or a cup that has been used for drinking to retrieve ice.
Provide clean individual cups or ask guests to use their own clean cup. Keep used cups separate from the water supply and follow the container maker’s cleaning instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use ice made from tap water?
Only if that water is suitable for drinking under current local guidance. Freezing does not make unsuitable water safe.
Should a water cooler stay covered during service?
Keep it covered when practical and use a clean tap or serving utensil. Protect the opening and water from hands, used cups, dust and other contamination.
Can I top up a shared container without cleaning it?
Do not assume an older container is clean. Follow its cleaning instructions and use a suitable, clean container before adding fresh water.
What if the water source has a local advisory?
Follow the current authority instructions. Do not serve the water or make ice from it unless the instructions say it is suitable.
Sources and further guidance
Related water guides
- How can I store household water safely in summer?
Start with water from a source or treatment you trust, then protect it with a clean, closed container and careful handling.
- How should I clean a home or office water dispenser?
Use the dispenser maker’s cleaning steps and product directions. A clean appliance does not verify the source water.
- Boiling, filters or chlorine tablets: what is the difference?
These methods do different jobs. Choose only after considering the suspected problem, local advice and the exact treatment instructions.