Ensure Water Security in Emergencies

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Importance of Water in Emergency Preparedness
3. Understanding Water Needs in Emergency Situations
   • 3.1 The Average Daily Water Consumption
   • 3.2 Estimating the Duration of Emergency Water Needs
4. Methods of Emergency Water Storage
   • 4.1 Bottled Water
   • 4.2 Filling Bathtubs
   • 4.3 Using WaterBOB
   • 4.4 Rain Barrels
   • 4.5 Stackable Water Jugs
   • 4.6 55-Gallon Barrels
5. Treating and Purifying Stored Water
   • 5.1 The Importance of Water Treatment
   • 5.2 Using Aquamira Water Treatment
   • 5.3 Cleaning and Preparing Containers for Water Storage
   • 5.4 Labeling and Storing Treated Water
6. Conclusion
7. Resources

💧 The Importance of Water in Emergency Preparedness

Water is the most essential resource for survival, and when it comes to emergency preparedness, it should be the first thing on your mind. While we often take access to clean water for granted, it can quickly become scarce during natural disasters or other emergency situations. In this article, we will discuss the importance of water in emergency preparedness and explore various methods of storing and treating water for long-term use.

Understanding Water Needs in Emergency Situations

🚰 The Average Daily Water Consumption

When planning for emergency water storage, it is crucial to consider the daily water needs of your household. On average, a person requires one to two gallons of water per day for drinking, hygiene, cooking, and sanitation purposes. This estimate takes into account activities such as taking showers, cooking meals, washing dishes, doing laundry, and flushing toilets.

⏳ Estimating the Duration of Emergency Water Needs

To determine how much emergency water you need to store, consider the potential duration of the emergency situation. Will it last for one week, two weeks, or even a month? Multiply the daily water consumption per person by the number of days you anticipate needing emergency water. This estimate will ensure you have an adequate supply to sustain you and your family during the crisis.

Methods of Emergency Water Storage

There are several effective methods for storing emergency water that you can consider:

📦 Bottled Water

One of the simplest ways to store water is by stacking up cases of bottled water. These bottles are affordable, portable, and have a long shelf life if stored in a cool, dry place. Allocate space in a closet or under your bed to store these cases, ensuring easy access during an emergency.

🛁 Filling Bathtubs

Before an impending disaster, filling your bathtubs with water is a smart way to ensure you have a large reserve of water for cleaning and flushing toilets. This extra water can come in handy when regular water resources are compromised.

🌊 Using WaterBOB

WaterBOB is a unique product designed specifically for emergency water storage. It is a large plastic container that fits inside your bathtub, allowing you to fill it with clean, drinkable water. Its secure seal prevents contamination, and you can easily access the water whenever needed. Set up a WaterBOB before an emergency strikes to be well-prepared.

🌧️ Rain Barrels

Utilizing rain barrels is an excellent way to store water for non-drinking purposes during emergency situations. You can collect rainwater to use in your garden or even provide water for your pets to drink. If necessary, invest in a reliable water filter like a Berkey to purify the rainwater for drinking purposes.

🔀 Stackable Water Jugs

For long-term storage of drinking water, consider using 5-gallon stackable water jugs. These containers are durable, BPA-free, and are designed to protect the water from light exposure to maintain its quality over an extended period. Their portability makes them convenient for transporting as needed.

🛢️ 55-Gallon Barrels

While not easily movable, 55-gallon barrels are an efficient way to store a large quantity of water for an extended period. Ensure these barrels are new and clean to prevent any contamination. You will also need a pump to extract the water when needed.

Treating and Purifying Stored Water

💧 The Importance of Water Treatment

When preparing emergency water supplies, it is essential to treat and purify the water before storage. One reliable water treatment option is Aquamira, a product specifically designed for long-term water storage. While some may suggest using bleach, its taste is unpleasant, and it is not an optimal solution. Aquamira effectively kills bacteria, eliminates odors, and stabilizes the water for up to five years.

🎯 Using Aquamira Water Treatment

To treat your stored water with Aquamira, mix equal parts of Part A and Part B of the treatment. Stir the mixture for five minutes, and you may notice a slight yellow tint, which is normal. Prior to adding the treatment, ensure the water container is clean by rinsing it with water and a small amount of dish soap.

🧼 Cleaning and Preparing Containers for Water Storage

Before filling the water storage containers, clean them thoroughly to eliminate any contaminants. Use water and dish soap to clean the container, ensuring all residue is rinsed out completely. This step is essential to maintain the quality and safety of the stored water.

📝 Labeling and Storing Treated Water

Once your containers are filled and treated, it is crucial to label them with the date of treatment and an approximate expiry date. This labeling system will help you keep track of the water's freshness and ensure you rotate your stock accordingly. Store the containers in a cool, dark place to maximize their shelf life.

Conclusion

In times of emergency, access to clean water becomes a life-saving resource. By understanding the importance of water in emergency preparedness and employing the appropriate storage and treatment methods, you can ensure the well-being of yourself and your family during challenging times. Remember, storing emergency water is a vital preparatory step that should not be overlooked.

🔗 Resources

• WaterBOB - Emergency Water Storage
• Berkey Water Filters
• Aquamira Water Treatment

Highlights

• Water is the most essential resource in emergency preparedness.
• The average daily water consumption is one to two gallons per person.
• Estimate the duration of an emergency to determine the amount of water needed.
• Bottled water, filling bathtubs, and WaterBOB are convenient methods of emergency water storage.
• Rain barrels and stackable water jugs are suitable for long-term water storage.
• Treating water with Aquamira ensures its safety for up to five years.
• Clean and label water storage containers for proper organization.
• Storing water in a cool, dark place prolongs its shelf life.
• Access to clean water is crucial for survival during emergencies.

FAQ

Q: How long can I store water treated with Aquamira? A: Aquamira-treated water can remain safe for consumption for up to five years.

Q: Can I use bleach to treat stored water? A: While bleach can be used as a disinfectant, it may result in an unpleasant taste. Aquamira is a more effective and tasteless option for long-term water storage.

Q: Should I use new or used barrels for storing water? A: It is recommended to use new barrels to prevent potential contamination. Clean and treat the barrels before storing water.

Q: How often should I rotate my emergency water supply? A: It is advisable to rotate your water supply every six months to ensure freshness and quality.

Q: Can I filter rainwater for drinking purposes? A: Yes, rainwater can be filtered for drinking purposes using a reliable water filter system like a Berkey.