Field guide: sanitation under disruption

Sanitation protects the group. Keep hands, food, drinking water, sleeping areas, wounds, and waste from crossing paths. Small routines matter more than perfect equipment.

Create clean and dirty zones

Choose separate places for food and safe water, hand cleaning, and waste. Keep shoes, flood-soaked items, cleaning materials, and pets out of food areas. Use a lined, covered trash container if collection is unavailable, then follow local disposal instructions.

Hands and wounds

Wash hands before food handling, after toilet use, after waste, and after wound care. Hand sanitizer can help when hands are not visibly dirty, but does not replace washing away dirt or chemicals. Use water considered safe for drinking for teeth, food, dishes, and wounds. Keep open wounds clean, covered, and away from contaminated water.

When plumbing is unavailable

Keep a temporary toilet arrangement separated from food, water, and sleeping. Cover and contain waste; never put it in storm drains, streams, or near wells. Seek public-health advice for local conditions.

Scope: Basic civilian hygiene, not clinical infection control or wastewater engineering.