How to purify your drinking water. The treatments described below work only to remove bacteria or viruses from water. If you suspect the water is unsafe because of chemicals, oils, poisonous substances, sewage or other contaminants, do not drink the water. Don't drink water that is dark colored, has an odor or contains solid materials. Storing water safely The best source of drinking water during an emergency is water you have stored with your emergency supplies. How to Find Water and How to Make Water Safe to Drink by Robert Wayne Atkins. How to Find Water and How to Make Water Safe to Drink Copyright © 1998, 2010, 2012 by Robert Wayne Atkins, P.E. All Rights Reserved. Different Types of Food Storage.