Should you keep a portion of water stored for emergencies?

Water Storage Guidelines

When storing water for emergencies, consider the 1-gallon-per-person-per-day rule. This means that for a 3-day emergency supply, store 9 gallons of water per person. For example, a family of four should store at least 36 gallons of water to last for 3 days.

Water Purification Methods

In case you need to source water from an outdoor source, such as a stream or lake, know that boiling water is the most effective method for purification. Bring the water to a rolling boil for 1 minute to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Alternatively, you can use water purification tablets or a portable water filter, but boiling remains the most reliable method.

Water Storage Tips

When storing water, consider the following: use food-grade containers to prevent contamination, keep the containers in a shaded area to prevent UV degradation, and replace the water every 6 months to ensure freshness. Store the containers in a designated area, such as a basement or garage, to protect them from extreme temperatures and potential damage.