In order to maintain daily operations and patient care services, health care facilities need to develop an Emergency Water Supply Plan (EWSP) to prepare for, respond to, and recover from a total or partial interruption of the facilities’ normal water supply. Water supply interruption can be caused by several types of events such as natural disaster, a failure of the community water system, construction damage or even an act of terrorism.<br> The planning guide provides a four step process for the development of an EWSP:<br> 1. Assemble the appropriate EWSP Team and the necessary background documents for your facility;<br> 2. Understand your water usage by performing a water use audit;<br> 3. Analyze your emergency water supply alternatives; and<br> 4. Develop and exercise your EWSP