Water Storage Calculations
Water storage is an important part of an emergency preparedness plan. The Red Cross recommends storing a minimum of one gallon of water per person, per day, in your emergency kit. Does this Spark an idea?
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Time Frame
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The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises storing at least a three-day supply of water, or three gallons per person, in emergency kits. It might take several days for rescue workers to reach you in the event of a disaster.
Considerations
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Pregnant and nursing women, babies, and those with medical conditions may require extra water. Hot weather can double the amount of water needed. An average person in normal conditions needs at least a half-gallon each day just for drinking.
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Types
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Commercially bottled water is the most reliable and safe form of home water storage. If you prefer to fill your own containers, use food-grade water bottles, and fill them with water from a treated source, such as city culinary water. If the water is untreated, add a few drops of unscented liquid bleach.
Warning
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Never use plastic milk or juice cartons to store water. The plastic isn't made for long-term storage, and the residue of the milk or juice promotes bacterial growth. Two-liter soft drink bottles, if thoroughly cleaned, will safely store water.
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References
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