Water is a fundamental necessity, and having an adequate supply during emergencies is critical for survival and comfort. Natural disasters, power outages, and other unexpected events can disrupt the availability of clean water, making it essential to store water properly at home. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about storing water for emergencies, from determining your needs to maintaining your supply.
1. Assessing Your Water Needs
The first step in preparing for an emergency is assessing how much water your household will need. Authorities like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Red Cross generally recommend storing at least one gallon of water per person per day. This amount should cover both drinking and sanitation needs. This equates to 12 gallons for a three-day supply for a family of four. However, it is advisable to store a two-week supply if possible, especially in areas susceptible to natural disasters. It is advisable to store more water than recommended to cover any loss of supply due to spillage or other accidental loss. One suggestion is that if you have the space in your home, apartment, or business, store up to 2 gallons per person per day.
Calculation Example:
- Drinking: 0.5 gallons per person per day
- Sanitation: 0.5 gallons per person per day
For a family of four for two weeks: 4 people x 1 gallon/person/day x 14 days = 56 gallons.
2. Selecting the Right Containers
Choosing appropriate containers is crucial for safe water storage. Use food-grade water storage containers specifically designed to store drinking water. These containers are made of polyethylene or other plastics labeled as safe for storing water. Avoid using containers that previously held chemicals or non-food substances, as chemicals can leach into the water and contaminate it.
Common Choices Include:
- Commercially Bottled Water: This is convenient as it is pre-sanitized and has a long shelf life.
- Food-Grade Water Storage Barrels: These are available in various sizes, typically 5 to 55 gallons, and are ideal for large quantities.
- Clean, Sanitized Plastic Bottles: After thoroughly cleaning, reuse soda or PET plastic bottles. Avoid milk jugs, as they can degrade and leak over time.
3. Cleaning and Sanitizing Containers
Before filling any containers with water, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Follow these steps:
Cleaning Steps:
- Wash: Clean the containers with dish soap and water. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
- Sanitize: Mix one teaspoon of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach (5%-9% sodium hypochlorite) with one quart of water. Pour the solution into the container, shake well, and ensure it contacts all surfaces. Rinse thoroughly with clean water before filling.
4. Filling and Sealing Containers
Fill the sanitized containers with clean tap water. If using untreated water from a well, boil it for one minute and let it cool before filling the containers. To avoid contamination, use a food-grade water hose for large containers. Seal the containers tightly to prevent contamination and label them with the date of storage.
Tips:
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion if the water freezes.
- Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent contamination.
5. Storing Water in a Suitable Location
Store your water containers in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight and heat can degrade plastic containers and promote the growth of algae and bacteria. Ideal storage locations include:
Suitable Locations:
- Basements: Typically cool and dark with stable temperatures.
- Closets or Pantries: Inside the home, away from heat sources.
- Garage: If it remains relatively cool and dark.
Avoid storing water near chemicals or gasoline, as vapors can permeate plastic containers and contaminate the water.
6. Rotating Your Water Supply
Regularly rotating your water supply ensures its freshness. Commercially bottled water typically has a shelf life of 1-2 years, while water stored in clean, sanitized containers should be replaced every 6 months. Use the oldest water first and refill containers with fresh water.
Rotation Tips:
- Mark the date of storage on each container.
- Implement a rotation system to ensure you use the oldest water first.
- Incorporate water rotation into your regular household maintenance routine.
7. Treating Water as Needed
If you need to use stored water after a prolonged period or if you suspect contamination, treat it before use. There are several methods to ensure the water is safe to drink:
Treatment Methods:
- Boiling: Boil water for at least one minute (or three minutes at higher altitudes). This method kills most pathogens.
- Disinfection: Add 1/8 teaspoon (8 drops) of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach per gallon of water. Stir well and let it stand for 30 minutes. The water should have a slight chlorine odor.
- Water Purification Tablets: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for treating water with these tablets.
8. Having Additional Water Sources
In addition to stored water, identify alternative water sources in your home that can be used in an emergency. These include:
Alternative Sources:
- Water Heaters: The water inside your water heater can be accessed by draining it.
- Ice Cubes: Melted ice can provide additional water.
- Toilet Tanks: Use the water in the toilet tank (not the bowl) if it is free from cleaning chemicals.
9. Emergency Water Filtration Systems
Investing in a portable water filtration system can be invaluable in an emergency. These systems can filter out bacteria, protozoa, and even some viruses, making unsafe water sources potable.
Popular Options:
- Portable Water Filters: Such as the LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini.
- Gravity-Fed Water Filtration Systems: Like the Berkey system, which is ideal for filtering large quantities of water.
10. Educating Household Members
Ensure that all household members are aware of the emergency water supply and know how to access and treat it if necessary. Education and preparedness can significantly reduce stress and improve safety during an emergency.
Action Plan:
- Conduct regular family meetings to review emergency plans.
- Demonstrate how to access and treat stored water.
- Assign responsibilities to ensure everyone knows their role in an emergency.
Conclusion
Properly storing water at home for emergencies ensures that you and your family have a safe and reliable supply when you need it most. By assessing your needs, choosing the right containers, cleaning and filling them correctly, storing them in suitable locations, rotating your supply, and treating water as necessary, you can safeguard your family’s health and well-being during unexpected events. Identifying alternative water sources and investing in emergency water filtration systems can enhance your preparedness. Prioritize water storage in your emergency plan to ensure you are ready for any situation. Check out “The Practical Guide to Family Preparedness” on Amazon for more details on this topic and many others.