For emergency preparedness, you should save at least one gallon per person, per day.
This is the minimum recommended amount to cover drinking needs. However, the actual amount needed can vary based on several factors and should also account for non-drinking uses.
Core Water Storage Guideline
Based on emergency preparedness recommendations, the fundamental guideline is to store:
- At least one gallon per person, per day.
This quantity is essential for survival, primarily addressing drinking water requirements.
Factors Increasing Water Needs
It's important to recognize that certain situations and individuals will require more than the minimum one gallon per person per day. These factors include:
- People in hot environments: Increased temperatures lead to greater water loss through perspiration.
- Children: Due to their metabolism and activity levels, children often need more water relative to their size.
- Nursing mothers: Producing milk requires a significant amount of water intake.
- Ill people: Fever, vomiting, or diarrhea can cause dehydration, necessitating increased fluid intake.
Additionally, your water storage needs to cover more than just drinking. You will also need water for:
- Food preparation
- Hygiene (washing hands, basic sanitation)
These additional uses mean storing more than one gallon per person per day is often advisable.
Recommended Storage Duration
While one gallon per person per day is the daily rate, you need enough stored to last for a significant period of time. A common recommendation is to:
- Consider storing at least a two-week supply of water for each member of your family.
Storing a two-week supply provides a buffer for longer-lasting emergencies where water sources or resupply efforts might be delayed.
Calculating Your Emergency Water Needs
To estimate your household's needs, multiply the recommended daily amount by the number of people in your family and the desired duration of your supply.
Here's a simple example for a family of four considering a two-week supply:
| Item | Quantity | Calculation | Total Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Rate | 1 gallon/person/day | ||
| Family Size | 4 people | ||
| Duration | 14 days (2 weeks) | ||
| Minimum Total | Gallons for 14 days | 1 gal/person/day 4 people 14 days | 56 gallons |
Note: This table shows the minimum based on the 1 gallon/person/day guideline. Account for the factors mentioned above (hot climate, specific needs, food prep, hygiene) by storing even more.
Storing an adequate supply of water is a critical step in preparing for any emergency. Ensure your containers are clean, food-grade, and stored in a cool, dark place.
