Emergency Preparedness – Water Access During Crises in Washington D.C.

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


The state has taken several steps to ensure that residents have access to clean drinking water during emergencies in Washington D.C. These include:

1. Implementing emergency preparedness plans: The D.C. government has developed and regularly updates emergency preparedness plans, which outline procedures for providing safe drinking water in case of a disaster or emergency.

2. Maintaining a robust water infrastructure: The D.C. Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) is responsible for maintaining the city’s water infrastructure, including pipes, treatment plants, and storage facilities. Regular maintenance and upgrades are carried out to ensure safe and reliable drinking water for residents.

3. Monitoring and testing water quality: DC Water routinely tests the city’s drinking water for contaminants and other potential hazards. In case of an emergency, additional testing may be conducted to ensure the safety of the water supply.

4. Providing alternative sources of drinking water: In case of an emergency that affects the city’s tap water, DC Water has designated several public sites as distribution centers for bottled or filtered tap water.

5. Educating residents on safe drinking water practices: The state also educates residents on how to prepare an emergency supply of drinking water at home and provides guidelines on safely storing and treating water during emergencies.

6. Coordinating with local agencies and organizations: The state works closely with local agencies, such as health departments, community organizations, and utility providers, to ensure a coordinated response in cases of emergencies that impact the city’s drinking water supply.

7. Collaborating with federal agencies: In cases where assistance is needed beyond the state’s resources, such as during major disasters or emergencies, the state coordinates with federal agencies like FEMA to provide safe drinking water solutions for residents in need.

8. Utilizing technology: The state uses advanced technologies to continuously monitor the quality of its drinking water supply and respond quickly to any potential threats or contamination incidents.

9. Developing contingency plans: The D.C. government has developed contingency plans for a variety of emergency scenarios, including natural disasters, cyberattacks, and water main breaks. These plans outline specific steps to be taken to ensure the safety and accessibility of clean drinking water for residents.

10. Providing updates and alerts: In case of an emergency that affects the city’s drinking water, DC Water and other local authorities will provide regular updates and alerts to residents through various channels such as social media, news outlets, and official government websites.

2. How does the state maintain emergency water supplies in rural areas in Washington D.C.?


The state maintains emergency water supplies in rural areas of Washington D.C. through the following methods:

1. Water Storage Tanks: The state often installs large storage tanks in rural areas to store emergency water supplies. These tanks can hold thousands of gallons of water and are usually placed strategically at locations that are easily accessible for distribution.

2. Emergency Water Wells: In some rural areas, the state may also drill emergency wells to provide access to groundwater during times of emergency. These wells are equipped with pumps and pipes for easy distribution of water.

3. Mobile Water Treatment Units: In the event of a contamination or natural disaster, the state may deploy mobile water treatment units to purify existing water sources or sources that have been identified as potential emergency water supplies.

4. Rainwater Harvesting Systems: In rural areas where there is no access to municipal water supply, the state may encourage and support the installation of rainwater harvesting systems on individual properties. This can provide an alternative source of clean drinking water during emergencies.

5. Emergency Response Plans: The state has established emergency response plans that outline specific actions and procedures in case of a water shortage or contamination in rural areas. These plans include protocols for distributing emergency supplies and restoring normal supply as soon as possible.

6. Collaboration with Local Municipalities: The state works closely with local municipalities in rural areas to ensure that there are adequate emergency water supplies available at all times. This collaboration includes regular inspections, maintenance, and testing of existing infrastructure and identifying potential new sources for emergency water supply.

7. Education and Awareness Programs: The state also conducts education and awareness programs in rural communities to inform residents about how they can prepare for emergencies, including storing an adequate supply of clean drinking water.

Overall, the state follows a multi-faceted approach to ensure that there is sufficient emergency water supply available in rural areas in Washington D.C., which can be accessed as needed during times of crisis.

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


There are several resources available for individuals with disabilities or special needs to access water during crises in Washington D.C. These include:

1. Emergency Preparedness Kits: The Office of Disability Rights provides emergency preparedness kits specifically designed for people with disabilities. These kits include items such as water bottles, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and communication devices.

2. Medical Equipment Suppliers: For individuals who rely on medical equipment that requires electricity or running water, many medical equipment suppliers have emergency service plans in place to ensure that their customers have access to necessary resources during a crisis.

3. Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT): CERT volunteers trained by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can assist individuals with disabilities and special needs during an emergency, including providing necessary resources.

4. Government Assistance Programs: Programs such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Vulnerable Household Team can provide assistance with utility bills and access to safe drinking water during emergencies.

5. Non-Profit Organizations: Organizations such as the American Red Cross and local disability advocacy groups may also provide assistance with accessing water during a crisis.

6. Communication Services: In case of power outages or disruptions in regular communication channels, some phone companies offer priority services for individuals with disabilities or special needs to ensure continued access to critical resources.

7. Evacuation Plans: If evacuation is required due to a crisis, shelters and transportation services should be accessible for individuals with disabilities or special needs.

It is important for individuals with disabilities or special needs to research and plan ahead for potential emergencies and disasters in their specific area, as well as communicate any specific needs to local authorities to ensure proper accommodations can be made if needed.

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


Yes, Washington D.C. has developed contingency plans for maintaining water access during natural disasters.

In the event of a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or severe storm, the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) in conjunction with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will activate its Emergency Response Plan. This plan has specific protocols and procedures for maintaining water access throughout the city.

Some of these measures include providing backup generators for pumping stations and treatment plants to ensure continued water supply, conducting rapid damage assessments to determine if any critical infrastructure needs repair, and coordinating with local emergency management agencies.

Additionally, DOEE maintains a Water Quality & Incident Response Unit that monitors and responds to any potential threats or disruptions to the city’s drinking water supply. This unit works closely with utility providers to implement appropriate response actions during emergencies.

The DDOT also has contingency plans in place for maintaining water access on roadways and bridges during floods or other natural disasters. This includes deploying pumps to remove excess water from flooded areas and working with public utilities to keep drains clear and functioning properly.

Overall, Washington D.C. has comprehensive contingency plans in place to ensure continuity of water access during natural disasters. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to address new threats or emergencies that may arise.

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


During emergencies in Washington D.C., alternative sources of water such as rainwater harvesting and groundwater wells are utilized in various ways, including:

1. Supplemental Drinking Water: These alternative sources of water can be used to supplement the city’s municipal drinking water system during emergency situations. This ensures that residents have access to clean and safe drinking water, even if there are disruptions in the main water supply.

2. Firefighting: Rainwater collected through harvesting systems can be used for firefighting purposes during emergencies, especially when there is a lack of access to municipal water. Groundwater wells can also be used for this purpose, providing a reliable source of water for firefighters.

3. Non-Potable Use: Alternative sources of water can also be used for non-potable purposes during emergencies, such as flushing toilets or washing hands. This helps conserve the city’s municipal water supply for essential uses like drinking and cooking.

4. Irrigation: In cases where there is a shortage of municipal water during an emergency, rainwater harvesting or groundwater wells can be used for irrigation purposes. This helps maintain green spaces and gardens that may provide important food sources during longer-term emergencies.

5. Emergency Relief Efforts: During disasters or severe weather events, alternative sources of water can be crucial in providing relief and support to affected communities. Emergency response teams may use harvested rainwater or groundwater from wells to provide clean drinking water to those impacted by the emergency.

Overall, alternative sources of water play an important role in ensuring that Washington D.C. has a resilient and reliable source of water during emergencies. They help reduce strain on the city’s main municipal supply and provide essential services during times of crisis.

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


Yes, there are a few community-based initiatives in place to support neighbors with limited access to water during crises in Washington D.C. These include:

1. DC Water’s Customer Assistance Program (CAP): This program provides assistance to low-income households who have difficulty paying their water bills and can potentially face shut-off notice. Eligible households can receive a discount of up to 50% on their monthly water bill.

2. DC Food Project: This organization collects donations of food, hygiene products, and other essential items from local residents and distributes them to families in need, including those who may struggle with accessing clean water during crises.

3. Community Support Organizations: Several organizations and non-profits in Washington D.C., such as the Capital Area Food Bank and Martha’s Table, offer support to families facing food insecurity and may also provide emergency water assistance during times of crisis.

4. Mutual Aid Networks: There are several mutual aid networks in Washington D.C. that work towards supporting community members in various ways, including providing emergency water supplies and resources during crises.

5. Neighbors Helping Neighbors DC: This volunteer-run organization helps connect communities with the resources they need during disasters or emergencies, including access to clean water through their community partners.

Overall, there are various community-based initiatives that aim to provide assistance with access to clean water during crises for those who may have limited access or financial constraints in Washington D.C.

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


The state of Washington D.C. has policies and procedures in place to address the issue of contaminated water sources during an emergency situation. These may include:

1. Activating Emergency Response Plans: The Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) would coordinate with other local agencies to activate emergency response plans.

2. Issuing Boil Water Advisories: If a water source is suspected to be contaminated, HSEMA would issue a boil water advisory, instructing residents to boil tap water before using it for drinking, cooking, or hygiene purposes.

3. Providing Alternative Water Sources: In case of widespread contamination, HSEMA may work with utility companies to provide alternative sources of clean water, such as bottled water or tanker trucks.

4. Conducting Water Quality Testing: State and local agencies would conduct frequent testing of the affected water source to monitor contamination levels and determine when it is safe for consumption.

5. Issuing Public Notices: The government would issue public notices through various media outlets and advisory systems to inform residents about the contamination and steps being taken to address it.

6. Evacuating Affected Areas: In severe cases, where the contamination poses a serious health risk, government agencies may evacuate affected areas until the water source is fully restored.

7. Collaborating with Federal Agencies: HSEMA would also work closely with federal agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for technical assistance and resources in addressing the contaminated water source.

8. Enhancing Infrastructure Resilience: To prevent future incidents of contaminated water sources during emergencies, state agencies may also work on enhancing infrastructure resilience and implementing measures such as regular testing, maintenance, and upgrades of infrastructure systems.

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


There are no designated distribution centers for emergency water supplies in the District of Columbia. However, the District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (DC HSEMA) maintains a network of water and food distribution points throughout the city that can be activated in the event of an emergency.

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


The state of Washington D.C. has several communication plans in place to inform residents about where to access safe drinking water during crises. These include:

1. The District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) Water Quality Division has a comprehensive public outreach program to inform residents about water quality and safety issues. This includes regular updates on the agency’s website, social media pages, and community events.

2. The DOEE also has an emergency response plan for incidents that may impact drinking water, such as contamination events or disruptions in the water supply. This plan outlines specific communication strategies for informing residents about any potential risks and providing information on where to access safe drinking water.

3. The DC Water website also provides information on current water quality and any alerts or advisories issued by the agency. Residents can sign up for alert notifications through email or text messages.

4. In the event of a major crisis or emergency, the Mayor’s Office of Communications will issue official statements and updates through their website, social media channels, and local news outlets.

5. Community organizations and non-profits also play a crucial role in disseminating information to residents during a crisis. For example, organizations like DC Water for People often partner with the DOEE to distribute information on safe drinking water and hygiene practices through social media, community events, and door-to-door campaigns.

Overall, Washington D.C. has a robust system in place to communicate with residents about accessing 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 Washington D.C.?


The District of Columbia has established partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide temporary access to potable water during emergencies. Some of the partnerships include:

1. Food & Friends: This non-profit organization collaborates with local businesses, restaurants, and grocery stores to prepare and distribute meals for people with serious illnesses. In cases of emergency, Food & Friends also provides bottled water to affected communities.

2. DC Water: The District’s water utility company has an Emergency Preparedness Plan in place that includes distribution of bottled water in case of a water main break or other service disruption. They also have agreements with several local businesses and community centers to serve as temporary water distribution points during an emergency.

3. D.C. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA): As part of its emergency response services, HSEMA maintains a list of identified locations throughout the city where residents can access bottled or bulk water in case of an extended interruption in the city’s drinking water system.

4. Red Cross: The American Red Cross Greater Chesapeake Region collaborates with local businesses and organizations to provide safe drinking water during disasters through their Safe and Well program.

5. Local grocery stores: In times of emergency, many local grocery stores offer free ice and/or distilled water for people without access to clean drinking water.

6. Community-based organizations: Local community organizations such as churches, schools, libraries, and recreation centers often serve as designated shelters or distribution points for bottled or bulk water during emergencies.

7. Community gardens: Organizations like DC UrbanGreens manage community gardens throughout the city that can be used as distribution sites for fresh produce and clean drinking water during emergencies.

8. Emergency Distribution Centers (EDCs): These are designated sites across the city where residents can receive bulk potable drinking water during an emergency.

9. Neighborhood Associations: Many neighborhood associations have established partnerships with businesses in their communities for efficient access to resources such as clean drinking water in case of emergencies.

10. Private companies and corporations: Some private companies and corporations have established disaster response plans that involve the distribution of bottled water to their employees and surrounding communities during a crisis.

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


There are several factors that go into the prioritization of emergency drinking water distribution during a crisis in Washington D.C.:

1. Impact of the Crisis – The severity and extent of the crisis will determine the urgency and level of need for emergency drinking water. For example, if there is a widespread natural disaster such as a hurricane or earthquake, the demand for emergency drinking water will be much higher compared to a localized event such as a burst water main.

2. Population Density – Areas with higher population density and greater vulnerability, such as low-income communities or neighborhoods with elderly residents, may be given priority for water distribution.

3. Access to Safe Drinking Water – Priority may be given to areas where access to safe drinking water has been completely cut off due to the crisis.

4. Vulnerable Groups – Certain groups, such as pregnant women, children, and people with disabilities, may have specific needs for clean drinking water and may be prioritized for distribution.

5. Availability of Alternative Sources – If alternative sources of clean drinking water are available (e.g. bottled water or functioning wells), these areas may not be prioritized for emergency water distribution.

6. Infrastructure Capacity – The capacity of local infrastructure to provide safe drinking water will also play a role in determining where emergency supplies are distributed.

7. Coordination with Local Authorities – The state will work closely with local authorities to identify areas that are most in need of emergency drinking water and prioritize distribution accordingly.

In general, the aim is to distribute emergency drinking water as equitably and efficiently as possible based on the specific needs and circumstances of each community affected by the crisis.

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


Yes, there are regulations in place for private well owners to ensure their wells do not become a source of contamination during emergencies in Washington D.C. These regulations are overseen by the District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). Some of the regulations include:

1. Regular testing: Private well owners in Washington D.C. are required to test their water regularly for various contaminants, including bacteria, nitrate, lead, and other harmful substances.

2. Emergency plans: The DOEE requires private well owners to have an emergency plan in place in case of natural disasters or other emergencies. This includes having a backup source of water and following proper disinfection procedures if the well becomes contaminated.

3. Construction standards: Private wells must be constructed according to specific standards set by the DOEE to prevent contamination and ensure safe drinking water.

4. Reporting requirements: Private well owners are required to report any changes or incidents that may affect the safety of their well water to the DOEE.

5. Education and outreach: The DOEE provides education and outreach programs to private well owners to help them understand their responsibilities and how they can protect their well water.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or other penalties. Additionally, private well owners should also follow general good practices such as properly maintaining their wells, keeping potential sources of contamination away from the well site, and monitoring for any changes in water quality.

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


Washington D.C. has a law in place that prohibits price gouging during crisis situations, including situations where there is a shortage of bottled water. This law is enforced by the District of Columbia Office of the Attorney General (OAG). If the OAG receives complaints of price gouging, they will investigate and take legal action if necessary.

In addition, there are also consumer protection laws in place that require businesses to provide accurate and truthful information about their products, including pricing information. The OAG can also take action against businesses that engage in deceptive or unfair practices related to bottled water pricing.

Furthermore, the District of Columbia Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs has a hotline for consumer complaints related to price gouging or other consumer issues during crisis situations. Consumers can call this hotline to report any concerns they have about price gouging of bottled water.

Overall, the state takes potential price gouging very seriously and has measures in place to prevent it during crisis situations.

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


Yes, the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) conducts regular testing and monitoring of emergency drinking water sources in Washington D.C. This includes monitoring the quality of water from rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater wells that serve as primary sources of drinking water. DC Water also conducts routine sampling at key points in its distribution system to ensure that the water remains safe for consumption.

In addition, DC Water implements a robust quality control program that includes daily testing at their treatment plants and regular inspections of their infrastructure to identify potential issues and address them promptly.

Furthermore, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all public water systems, including those in Washington D.C., to test their water for more than 90 regulated contaminants on a regular basis. These results must be reported to the EPA and made available to the public through annual Consumer Confidence Reports.

Overall, there are multiple layers of testing and monitoring in place to ensure the safety of emergency drinking water sources in Washington D.C.

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


The D.C. government has a sufficient emergency management system in place to provide clean drinking water for all evacuees. The Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) is responsible for coordinating the response to emergencies and managing resources, including access to clean water, during disasters. In the event of a large-scale disaster, HSEMA may work with federal agencies, local utilities, and non-governmental organizations to ensure that there is enough clean water available for all evacuees in emergency shelters. Additionally, the D.C. Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) has plans in place to provide safe drinking water during disasters and can distribute bottled water if needed.

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


Yes, the Emergency Support Function 7 (ESF-7) Mass Care and Shelter Annex of the District of Columbia’s Emergency Operations Plan includes a section on emergency drinking water distribution. This plan outlines the roles and responsibilities of various government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and volunteer groups in coordinating and providing emergency drinking water to affected areas during a disaster. It also explains how these groups can request assistance from other agencies or organizations as needed.

Additionally, the DC Water Agency has established an Emergency Water Supply Program that includes a list of volunteer organizations and individuals who are trained and available to assist with emergency water distribution. These volunteers have been trained in emergency response procedures and are equipped with necessary tools such as pumps, hoses, and containers to help distribute safe drinking water during emergencies.

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


In Washington D.C., the District Government has measures in place to address language barriers and ensure access to information about safe drinking water sources during emergencies. These include:

1. Multilingual Public Outreach: The District Government provides information in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, French, Vietnamese, Korean, and more, to reach residents with limited English proficiency. This includes distributing materials about safe drinking water sources and emergency response plans.

2. Language Assistance Services: The District Government also offers translation services for non-English speaking residents through the Language Access Program. This includes providing language assistance for emergency alerts and notifications related to drinking water.

3. Community Engagement: In the case of a drinking water emergency, the District Government works closely with community-based organizations and leaders to ensure that diverse communities are informed and can access safe drinking water.

4. Emergency Preparedness Plan: The District Government has an Emergency Preparedness Plan in place that includes specific provisions for addressing language barriers during emergencies. This plan outlines strategies for communicating important information about safe drinking water sources to all residents, regardless of language proficiency.

5. Emergency Notifications: During a drinking water emergency, the District Government uses multiple communication channels to inform residents about the situation and provide instructions on how to access safe drinking water. This includes using social media platforms and sending out alerts through radio stations and news outlets in different languages.

6. Bilingual Staffing: The District Government employs bilingual staff at helplines or service centers so that non-English speaking residents can get assistance during emergencies.

7. Collaborations with Organizations: The District Government partners with community organizations and agencies that serve diverse populations to distribute information about safe drinking water sources during emergencies.

Overall, through proactive outreach, clear communication channels, multilingual materials and translation services, Washington D.C.’s government aims to ensure that all residents have access to vital information about safe drinking water sources during emergencies regardless of their language proficiency.

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


Yes, the District of Columbia has emergency response plans in place to address long-term disruptions to public water systems caused by natural disasters or other crises. The District’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) outlines a comprehensive framework for responding to and recovering from emergencies and disasters, including those that may affect the public water supply.

The EOP includes specific annexes and procedures for addressing disruptions to infrastructure, including water systems. This includes processes for assessing damage to water infrastructure, coordinating with utility companies, and providing alternative sources of potable water if necessary.

Additionally, the District has a Water/Wastewater Response Plan that outlines specific actions to be taken in the event of a disruption to the public water system. This plan includes coordination with local and federal agencies, communication protocols, and procedures for managing potential health hazards related to the water supply.

In the event of a long-term disruption to public water systems, the District may also activate its contingency plans, which include deploying mobile emergency generators or coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions for mutual assistance.

Overall, Washington D.C. has robust plans in place to ensure continuity of essential services such as clean drinking water during emergencies or crises. These plans are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect best practices and lessons learned from past incidents.

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


According to the District of Columbia’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan, bottled water is considered an essential supply for emergency preparedness. The plan states that residents should store at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. While specific mention of bottled water is not made, it is listed under the category of “drinking water” and is typically recommended as a convenient option for emergency supply storage. Additionally, the plan mentions that government agencies and organizations may consider providing bottled water as part of their emergency response efforts.

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


The state of Washington D.C. has several measures in place to ensure that people experiencing homelessness have access to clean drinking water during an emergency. These include:

1. Emergency Water Stations: The District’s Department of Human Services sets up emergency water stations throughout the city during emergencies, providing bottles of clean and safe drinking water for people in need.

2. Mobile Water Distribution Units: These mobile units are dispatched to areas with high concentrations of homeless individuals to distribute bottled water and other essentials such as food, clothing, and hygiene items.

3. Shelters: In the event of extreme weather conditions or other emergencies, the District opens additional shelters specifically for people experiencing homelessness. These shelters provide access to clean drinking water and other necessities.

4. Outreach Teams: The District has outreach teams that work closely with homeless individuals, especially during emergencies. These teams distribute bottled water, help connect individuals to resources, and also inform them about any health hazards related to unsafe drinking water.

5. Collaboration with Non-Profit Organizations: The government works closely with non-profit organizations that specialize in serving the homeless population in times of crises. These organizations provide essential services such as clean drinking water, food, shower facilities, and medical aid.

6. Emergency Preparedness Education: The District regularly conducts training sessions on emergency preparedness for both shelter staff and homeless individuals. This includes educating them on ways to safely store and purify water during an emergency.

7. Providing Information: During an emergency, the government uses various communication channels such as TV/radio alerts, social media platforms, and text messages to inform people experiencing homelessness about locations where they can access clean drinking water.

In addition to these measures, the District also works closely with neighboring jurisdictions and agencies to coordinate efforts in providing access to clean drinking water for those experiencing homelessness during emergencies.