How to store water for an emergency

Even in lands that have so far had a reliable drinking water supply recent events around the globe have highlighted that it cannot be taken for granted. It may not always be there or may perhaps be interrupted for a significant time. During such interruptions of our fresh water supply we may be supplied water by the emergency services or be able to buy bottled water locally.

If that is not possible and you find yourself without fresh water then that would be a very serious position given our dependency on clean water to survive. In order to prepare for that happening we can take significant steps to provide our own supply of clean water.

Our options are:

Store enough water
Provide a water filtering kit

Storing water is a viable option if we use the right container and treat the water correctly. We can store water safely for up to 10 years if we use the right water treatment additives. The down side with storing water is it is very heavy. Hence storage of water must be well planned if we are to be able to make use of it. Bulk storage of water can be achieved using one of the many special food grade plastic barrels that are available. When planning to use such a barrel we need to position it in an area that will be least affected from whatever disaster threatens. It needs to be in a clean dry environment as liquids and gasses can penetrate the plastic wall over a long period of time. Once filled with fresh water and treated it may be very heavy so ensure you site the container where it can stay permanently. Water should also be stored in smaller containers that are easily transportable in an emergency. Such smaller containers can then be refilled from the bulk storage barrel.

If we have a source of fresh water available nearby than we could choose to filter the water to make it safe to drink. We need to ensure that it not only is clean from pollutants but is also clean from harmful bacteria. Special water filtering kits can be obtained from small portable devices for personal use to larger devices that will filter water to supply the whole house. These units are well worth the investment as they will provide fresh water over a prolonged period whether you have to stay put or evacuate your home.

However we prepare to be self sufficient in water it will not be time and money wasted.