Plan For Emergencies: How To Store Your Emergency Water Supply
If you've started your emergency preparedness plans, pay close attention to your water supply. In an emergency situation, you may be able to go a couple of weeks without food, but that's not the case where water is concerned. In an emergency situation, you might only be able to go a couple of days without water, which is why an emergency supply is so crucial. Here are three tips that will help you plan for your emergency water needs.
Consider all Your Water Needs
When it comes to planning for your emergency water supply, you may think that all you need to worry about is your drinking water. If that's all you're going to prepare for, you can do with about a gallon of water per family member. However, you won't just be drinking your emergency supply of water; you'll also be cooking and cleaning with it, as well. During a disaster, you may also be cleansing wounds with your water supply. Once you have at least a three-day supply of drinking water on hand for each family member, start adding to the supply. That way, you'll have enough water on hand for all your other needs, as well.
Choose the Proper Containers
If you're in the process of storing an emergency supply of water for you and your family, be sure to choose the right containers. The one thing you need to know is that milk cartons should never be used. The plastic will degrade too quickly, leaving you without a supply of water. However, you can use empty soda and juice bottles, as long as you clean them out thoroughly before filling with water. While those small containers are good for individual use, you should also have a larger supply of water, as well. That's where the large, food-grade storage barrels come into the picture. These sturdy plastic barrels come in 50-gallon sizes, which provides ample storage for your emergency water supply. Be sure to have a siphon pump on hand so that you can retrieve water from the barrel more easily.
Store in the Right Location
When it comes to protecting your water supply, be sure you store it in the right location. Large barrels should be stored in a cool dry location, preferably in your garage or storage shed. Smaller bottles of water – such as the juice and soda bottles – should be stored in a convenient location inside your home. That way, you have immediate access to them in an emergency. It should be noted that all water containers should be stored out of direct sunlight.
Contact a service, like WaterBrick International, for more help in securing your water supply.