Water Storage

One of the most common questions during emergency preparedness is how long water can be safely stored. Let's delve into practical methods to ensure your stored water remains safe for consumption.

1. Understanding Water Categories:
   • Wild Water: Natural sources like rainwater or streams.
   • Stored Water: Treated at a municipal site and often supplemented with additives like chlorine.
   • Treated Water: Chemically treated, filtered, or purified through various methods.
2. Why Water Goes Bad:
   • Microorganisms: Can render water undrinkable or toxic.
   • Chemical Contamination: From previous non-water substances or improper containers.
   • Surrounding Chemicals: Leaching from the environment.
3. Proper Storage Methods:
   • Container: Use opaque, food-grade containers to prevent light exposure and chemical leaching.
   • Additives: Consider adding chlorine or hydrogen peroxide to inhibit microbial growth.
   • Airtight Seal: Keep containers sealed to prevent air exchange and contamination.
   • Temperature Stability: Store in a cool, stable environment to prevent bacterial proliferation.
4. Recommended Chemical Additions:
   • Chlorine: 8 drops of 6% sodium hypochlorite bleach per gallon.
   • Hydrogen Peroxide: 8 drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide per gallon.
5. Avoiding Chemical Contamination:
   • Use only containers labeled as food-grade or specifically designed for water storage.
   • Avoid reusing containers that previously held non-water substances.
6. Storage Quantity:
   • Aim for at least a three-week supply per person and pet.
   • General rule: 1 gallon per person per day, but consider storing more.
7. Water Rotation:
   • While technically water can be stored indefinitely if properly treated, it's advisable to rotate every six months.
   • Rotation ensures water remains fresh and helps identify any storage issues early on.
8. Testing and Treatment:
   • Before consuming stored water, filter and aerate it to improve taste and remove any lingering chemicals.
   • Have multiple filtration options on hand for safety.
9. Continuous Monitoring:
   • Regularly check stored water for any signs of discoloration, odor, or taste abnormalities.
   • Stay informed about local water quality reports and adjust storage and treatment methods accordingly.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently store water for emergencies, ensuring a safe and reliable supply for you and your family. Remember, preparedness is key to staying safe in uncertain situations.

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