How to store Water for long term Survival

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Here’s what everyone should know about how to efficiently store water to be prepared for a catastrophe.

1MEver thought about the possibility that your water service could cease in the event of some kind of catastrophe? Would you have enough for your children to drink for a week? If you live in the Southwest, what if your city ran out of water?

I know something about long term water storage, not because I’m a security analyst, but because I have enough water stored to last my family a month.

In general, one person needs one gallon of water every day (drinking and hygiene). More water is needed for special circumstances such as medical conditions and hot weather.

According to FEMA, you should have enough stored water to last three days, the time it usually takes to get water running again following a tornado, ice storm or earthquake.

But sometimes it takes longer, and many people have decided to store enough water to exceed one week, even 30 days’ worth.

To play it safe, have at least two weeks of stored water: 14 gallons per person. Of course, living in a small place will make a month’s worth of water storage for a family of four challenging. However, being resourceful can conquer this problem.

I recommend starting off with a 14 day supply of stored water, then add onto that as more money and space come your way. Strangely, storing water can become addictive, for lack of a better term. After filling my 55-gallon barrels, I want to fill a third one.

Tips on Water Storage Long Term

  • Pre-packaged bottled water. Store under beds.
  • Refill plastic bottles. Thoroughly clean beforehand (empty soda, sports drink, sports bottles).
  • 5-7-gallon water jugs. Their plastic (usually blue) is sturdy.
  • Bathtub water. But don’t fill the bathtub (very germy). Instead, run the tap into a “waterBOB” plastic bag. Google it. Get this.
  • 55-gallon water barrels. The plastic is BPA-free plus UV-resistant.
  • Rain barrels. Place at the base of your home’s gutter and collect rainwater.

Robert Siciliano personal and home security specialist to BestHomeSecurityCompanys.com discussing burglar proofing your home on Fox Boston. Disclosures.