Do this nowTap each step when done
- 1Check the sewer. If water rises or bubbles in floor drains, don't use it.
- 2Sewer works, no water: pour a bucket of non-potable water into the bowl all at once.
- 3No sewer, don't flush. Double-bag the bowl or a bucket.
- 4Cover the waste with half a cup of sawdust or cat litter.
- 5Keep urine separate in another bucket, if you can.
- 6Change the bag halfway, with gloves. Tie both.
- 7Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap, or use gel that is 60% alcohol.
Don't
- Don't use your drinking water to flush.
- Don't pour bleach on urine or use quicklime.
- Don't bury or burn waste near your home.
- Don't flush wipes down the toilet.
Have ready
- 3 five-gallon buckets with lids and seat.
- Heavy 13-gal bags, nitrile gloves, zip ties.
- About 5 gal of sawdust, wood shavings, or cat litter.
- 30–32 gal can with a lid, outside and in the shade.
Key factIf water rises through the floor drains, notify building management and your water utility.
More detail
Reviewed: Nov 2026 · Sources: Chapter 21 · Hygiene and sanitation
