Water Storage Tips

Emergency water storage is recommended at about 7 gallons per person per week, for a two week period of time. Your freezer may be a way to give you some "extra" water storage.

Did you know that it costs you as much as 75% more to keep your food cold if your freezer is empty? If you are unable to keep your freezer full of food and as a way to have some “extra” water storage, keep small water jugs or containers in your freezer. This will also help save money on electricity and ensure this water is safe. Besides saving money on electricity you will ensure some of your water supply is available in case of an emergency. Water containers can easily be removed if you need additional room for food storage.

If the power goes out, your water storage in the freezer will serve at least three purposes:

First, the ice jugs or bottles will keep your food cold to help ensure your food supply stays safe.

Second, your water storage will be safe and available. As the water melts you will have drinking water.

Third, if you have to leave home and need to take food supplies and keep them cold, the smaller frozen jugs or bottles are easily turned into the ice for your ice chest. Their smaller size works better when fitting into small or large spaces as needed.

For your regular water storage there are many containers ranging from 4 oz to 55 gallons to secure your 14 gallons per person goal.

Also, keeping water purification tablets is always recommended. The tablets are a necessary part of your emergency supplies. However, remember to check the expiration date! Just like medications these tablets can loose their viability. Try to remember to check your water purification tablets at least twice a year.

By being sure you have adequate emergency water stored and by remembering to check all emergency supplies for expiration dates on a regular basis, you will gain confidence in being prepared for an emergency.

--Brenda, Oregon