5 Important Emergency Water Tips

We at Total Prepare are regularly asked how to store water. Some of our customers have a pretty good grasp as to what to do, but many more need a bit of guidance and instruction. Considering that water is the most essential component to emergency preparedness, we thought it would be helpful to provide a few important water storage tips.

If you are planning to store water, make sure you overestimate rather than run short. Emergency responders recommend a minimum of 1 gallon of water per person per day. That will be enough for drinking, food preparation and clean up.
Store your water in an easily accessible place. Many people assume they will access the toilet tank or hot water tank for emergency water. Think again. In a severe earthquake chances are your toilet tank will be leaking or cracked. So too for the hot water tank. In a flood the water will most likely be contaminated. Your water should be stored in a sealed plastic container that is in an easily accessible area in case you need to evacuate.
Always store water in food grade materials to ensure your water is safe to drink. Most plastics are recycled and can contain heavy metals.
If you store your water in large containers such as a 55 gallon drum or 125-250 gallon Super Tanker, make sure you have containers to transfer the water into in the event you have to evacuate. Always be certain you will be able to carry the weight of these mobile containers.
Make sure to refresh the water supply every 5-6 months. Water has a limited shelf life. The best option is to add aerobic oxygen as this product will stop harmful bacteria growth and will keep the water potable for up to 5 years.

Following the above tips will greatly increase your ability to provide sufficient emergency water for you and your family.