Non-Potable Water Symbol 🚱 - Meaning, Cultural Context & Usage

Definitions

1

Safety · Warning uncommon

A warning symbol indicating water that is unsafe for human consumption. Used to mark water sources that should not be drunk.

Primarily used in informational contexts about safety or when discussing water quality issues.

Just a reminder that the tap water in the workshop is 🚱 - please use the water cooler instead.

Workplace communication

Recognized internationally as a safety symbol, though digital usage is limited compared to other warning symbols.

2

Communication · Metaphorical rare

Metaphorically used to indicate something harmful, toxic, or best avoided, extending beyond literal water contexts.

Occasionally used in humorous contexts to suggest avoiding something negative.

That relationship was definitely 🚱 for my mental health.

Personal messaging

This metaphorical usage is emerging but remains relatively uncommon in digital communication.

One of the least used warning symbol emojis, as its specific meaning has limited application in everyday digital communication.

Despite its rarity in casual conversation, it reflects growing global awareness of water safety and environmental contamination issues.

United States Used primarily in utility and safety communications, rarely in casual conversation.

Gen_X: Primarily used literally in safety contexts, rarely in casual communication.

Gen_Z: Rarely used except ironically to indicate something is 'toxic' or should be avoided.

Older: Seldom used, generally only in formal safety communications.

Millennials: Occasionally used in environmental discussions or when talking about unsafe conditions.

🚱⚠️

Strong warning about unsafe water or contamination hazard.

Used in safety communications or when discussing environmental hazards.

🚱🏊

Warning not to swim in contaminated water.

Used during public health announcements about unsafe swimming conditions.