Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

Water is essential for survival, and in an emergency or survival situation, access to clean water can be severely limited or completely cut off. Knowing how much water you need to store for yourself and your family can mean the difference between life and death. Proper water storage ensures that you have enough water to last through the duration of an emergency, whether it’s a natural disaster, power outage, or other crisis.

What You Need

  • A water storage container or containers
  • A measuring cup or jug
  • A pen and paper for recording daily water usage
  • A calculator
  • Knowledge of the recommended daily water intake for your family members

Step-by-Step Instructions or Key Techniques

  1. Determine the Number of People in Your Household: Count the number of people who will rely on your water supply during an emergency. This includes pets, if applicable.

  2. Calculate Recommended Daily Water Intake: Use the general guideline of one gallon of water per person per day for drinking. For cooking and sanitation purposes, add an additional half gallon per person per day. This means each person requires a total of one and a half gallons of water per day.

  3. Consider Special Needs: If you have family members with special needs, such as those requiring more water due to illness or pregnancy, adjust the water requirements accordingly.

  4. Estimate Duration of Emergency: Determine how long you expect the emergency to last. This could be based on historical data for your area or a conservative estimate of several days to a week.

  5. Calculate Total Water Requirement: Multiply the daily water requirement per person by the number of people and the duration of the emergency. For example, if you have four people and expect the emergency to last for three days, you would need 18 gallons of water (4 people x 1.5 gallons/person/day x 3 days).

  6. Store Water Properly: Use food-grade plastic containers or drums designed for water storage. Ensure containers are clean and free of contaminants. Fill containers with tap water and seal tightly. Store water in a cool, dark place to prevent contamination and reduce evaporation.

  7. Rotate Water Supply: Water stored in plastic containers can last up to six months. Rotate your water supply every six months to ensure freshness.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Underestimating Water Needs: Always err on the side of caution and store more water than you think you need. Consider the possibility of extended emergencies.
  • Not Accounting for Special Needs: Failing to account for increased water needs for those with special requirements can lead to dehydration.
  • Improper Storage: Storing water in non-food grade containers or in areas exposed to heat and light can lead to contamination and spoilage.
  • Ignoring Water Quality: Ensure water is safe for consumption. Use water purification methods if necessary.

Variations, Tips, or Related Techniques Worth Knowing

  • Emergency Water Sources: Know how to access alternative water sources such as rainwater collection, snow melting, or using water from a well or stream. Always purify water from these sources before drinking.
  • Water Purification Methods: Learn how to purify water using boiling, chemical treatments, or filtration systems. This is crucial for ensuring water safety.
  • Water Conservation Techniques: In an emergency, every drop of water counts. Use water conservation techniques such as reusing water for multiple purposes and minimizing water waste.

TLDR

Determine daily water storage requirements by calculating one and a half gallons per person per day, considering special needs, and estimating the duration of the emergency. Store water properly and rotate every six months. Avoid common mistakes like underestimating needs and improper storage. Know alternative water sources and purification methods. Water conservation is key in emergencies.

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