Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

Access to clean water is crucial for survival. In emergencies, water supplies can be contaminated or cut off, making stored water essential. Proper storage and purification techniques ensure you have safe water to drink, cook with, and use for sanitation.

What You Need

  • Clean containers: plastic bottles, glass jars, or food-grade plastic drums
  • Water: from a safe source like tap water or a filtered stream
  • Bleach: unscented, with 5-6% sodium hypochlorite
  • Water treatment tablets or a water filter
  • Labels: to mark the date and type of water
  • Storage area: cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and chemicals
  • Tools: funnel, measuring cup, permanent marker

Step-by-Step Instructions

Storing Water

  1. Clean Containers: Wash containers thoroughly with soap and water. Rinse well and dry.
  2. Fill Containers: Use clean water. If from a tap, run water for a few minutes to clear pipes. Fill containers to the top to minimize air space.
  3. Add Bleach (Optional): For extra safety, add 2 drops of bleach per quart of water. Mix well.
  4. Seal Containers: Ensure caps are tightly sealed to prevent contamination.
  5. Label Containers: Write the date and type of water on each container.
  6. Store Properly: Place containers in a cool, dark area. Rotate every six months.

Purifying Water

  1. Boiling: Bring water to a rolling boil for 1 minute (3 minutes at high altitudes). Cool before drinking.
  2. Chemical Treatment: Use water treatment tablets or add 16 drops of bleach per gallon of water. Let sit for 30 minutes before drinking.
  3. Filtering: Use a portable water filter or a homemade filter with layers of sand, charcoal, and cloth.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Not Rotating Water: Store water for no more than six months. Rotate regularly to ensure freshness.
  • Improper Sealing: Ensure containers are sealed tightly to prevent contamination.
  • Incorrect Bleach Ratio: Use the correct amount of bleach to avoid over-chlorination.
  • Storing in Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can degrade plastic containers and encourage bacterial growth.

Variations, Tips, and Related Techniques

  • Emergency Water Sources: Collect rainwater, melt snow, or use water from pipes, hot water tanks, and ice cubes.
  • Water Purification Tablets: Carry a supply of tablets for quick treatment.
  • DIY Water Filter: Create a simple filter using a plastic bottle, sand, charcoal, and cloth.
  • Emergency Water Storage: Keep a 3-day supply of water per person, or 1 gallon per day.
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