How and Where To Store Your Emergency Water Supply
It is very easy to take our household water supply for granted, but when safe drinking water isn’t available, it can become an emergency very quickly. Every household should have an emergency supply of water to meet its member’s needs during a disaster or other emergency. So, how and where should you store your water supply?
It is very important to always store your water supply in food grade plastic or glass containers with tight fitting caps. A great example of these containers would be: 2 liter soda bottles and other juice or punch containers. Do not use plastic milk jugs, as the protein and fat in milk is extremely hard to remove, which might allow bacteria to grow in the container during storage. When planning for long-term water storage, remember to rotate your supply, as the chemicals in the plastic containers may start to break down over time. Containers that are not labeled as being food or beverage containers could release harmful chemicals into your water supply. NEVER use a container that has previously been used to store toxic substances! You may also purchase new plastic storage containers from retailers. There are many different sizes and types available, including “water pouches“, which are easier to put into kits that you might have to carry for awhile in an emergency.
You should always store your water supply in a cool, dry place. Try to avoid storing plastic containers of water on your garage or basement floor. The chemicals that are in the cement could seep up through the plastic and contaminate the water. Water weighs over 8 pounds per gallon, so make sure that the shelving you are storing it on is sturdy enough to hold the weight. Don’t forget, the average amount of water needed in an emergency is one gallon per person per day. More is needed for cooking and basic hygiene.
