Warning: Do Not Drink! The Importance of Clear Water Quality Documentation

Every August, Water Quality Month reminds us of the importance of clean and safe drinking water. But ensuring safe water isn’t just about filtration and treatment, it’s also about communication. Without clear documentation, water quality information can be misinterpreted, ignored, or even completely misunderstood.

From confusing water reports to misleading warning labels, poor technical writing can have real consequences. Clear communication can prevent everything from minor misunderstandings to full-blown public health crises.

Access to detailed water quality information empowers you to take part in the maintenance and improvement of your local water

The Dangers of Unclear Water Documentation

When water safety information is unclear, the consequences ripple far beyond a little confusion. From misinterpretations that lead to health risks to missing warnings entirely, poor communication can compromise public trust and well-being. 

1. Overly Technical Water Reports

Many municipalities provide water quality reports, but have you ever actually tried to read one? These reports often contain scientific jargon, complex charts, and acronyms that only an environmental scientist could love.

Imagine reading this: “The MCLG for TTHMs is 0.08 mg/L, and our 90th percentile value was within the AL but exceeded the secondary MCL.” 

Now imagine trying to figure out if your tap water is safe to drink.

Solution: Water reports should include plain-language summaries, visual aids, and clear action steps for residents who need to take precautions. 

2. Misleading Warning Labels

Water fountains sometimes feature small labels that say “Non-Potable Water.” But unless you know that “potable” means safe to drink, you might assume it’s just a fancy way of saying, “Enjoy!”

Even worse, some warning signs try to be too clever or vague: “Use at Your Own Risk” – Risk of what? A stomachache? A superpower? “Caution: Water Source Untreated” – So… is it safe or not?

Solution: Clear warnings should use universally understood language and symbols: “DO NOT DRINK. Unsafe Water.”  paired with a simple icon of a crossed-out drinking glass.

3. Lost or Outdated Water Safety Guidelines

Knowledge management failures can be just as harmful as bad writing. If local water quality guidelines are buried in outdated PDFs or lost on an unsearchable website, people won’t find the information they need in time.

A real-world example? During the Flint water crisis, confusing and contradictory information left residents unsure whether their water was safe, worsening public distrust.

Solution: Water quality information should be easy to access, up to date, and regularly communicated to the public through multiple channels (websites, SMS alerts, social media, and print materials).

The Role of Technical Writers in Water Safety

Good technical writing can make the difference between an informed public and a health disaster. Water quality documentation should:

• Be written for the average person: Think 8th-grade reading level, not a chemistry PhD.
• Use clear visuals: Simple icons, color-coded safety indicators, and easy-to-read charts.
• Provide clear actions: If the water is unsafe, tell people exactly what to do: “Boil for 3 minutes before drinking.”

Keep It Clear, Keep It Safe

Water quality documentation isn’t just a formality—it’s a critical public health tool. The clearer the message, the safer the water. So, the next time you see a water quality report, a warning sign, or a public notice, ask yourself: Would the average person understand this? If not, it might be time to rewrite it.

Because when it comes to water safety, clarity is just as important as cleanliness!

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References

“Consider It Culture: Avoiding Jargon for Effective Communication.” Accessed 7/9/25. https://ndto.com/consider-it-culture-avoiding-jargon-for-effective-communication

“How does water quality impact public health.” SBN Software. 2/24/25. Accessed 7/9/25. https://sbnsoftware.com/blog/how-does-water-quality-impact-public-health