Reliable Solutions for Safe, Clean Water in Any Emergency

During disasters, water systems can fail without warning. Pipes break, contamination enters the system, or electrical outages stop municipal pumps. The CDC recommends at least one gallon of water per person per day, but during a crisis, needs can quickly exceed that.

Storing water provides:

• ✔ Clean drinking water during boil notices or contamination

• ✔ Water for cooking and washing

• ✔ Stability during supply chain or power outages

• ✔ Peace of mind knowing your home has a reliable reserve

Having your own stored water means you are not dependent on stores, deliveries, or working utilities during an emergency.

A general guideline:

• Minimum: 1 gallon per person per day

• Better: 2 gallons per person per day

• Ideal: 14-day supply for your household

Also consider additional needs for:

• Pets

• Medical devices

• Gardening or sanitation

• Hot climates (higher consumption)

Choose containers that are:

• Food-grade

• BPA-free

• Designed specifically for water storage

• Easy to transport, lift, and seal

• Resistant to algae growth and contamination

Common options include:

• 55-gallon drums — long-term bulk storage

• 5–7 gallon jugs — portable and manageable

• Stackable water bricks — modular, space-efficient

• Emergency water storage totes — ideal for shelter-in-place

• Collapsible containers — backup, lightweight options

Always avoid containers that previously stored chemicals, juice, or milk.

Water should be stored in:

• Cool, dark areas

• Indoors if possible

• Away from direct sunlight

• Off the garage floor (use pallets or shelving)

• Somewhere accessible during an emergency

Good locations include:

• Basement

• Utility room

• Interior closet

• Under beds

• Pantry

• Temperature-stable garage (not extreme heat)

Avoid storing water in areas where summer heat exceeds 90+ degrees for long periods.

Properly stored water can remain drinkable for long periods, but rotation keeps everything fresh:

• Municipal tap water: rotate every 6–12 months

• Commercially bottled water: follow the manufacturer date

• Treated water in drums: typically 1–5 years depending on treatment

Label containers with date stored and date to replace.

Before storing tap water long-term, you may:

• Add water treatment drops

• Use household unscented chlorine bleach (correct measurements only)

• Use water purification tablets

• Use a filter first if water is cloudy

Never use scented, splash-less, or gel bleach.