When prioritizing emergency supplies, your number one focus should always be water. In an emergency situation, securing a safe and reliable source of water is critical. The average human body can only survive 3-4 days without water. Below, we’ll discuss the **best water storage solutions** for both Grab-and-Go and Shelter-in-Place scenarios to help you stay prepared.
Grab-and-Go Water Storage Options
When you need to evacuate quickly, Grab-and-Go water options are essential. Here are the top three choices:
1. Water Bottles
Water bottles are readily available at grocery stores and convenient to grab. However, they are **not designed for long-term storage**. If you're using them, ensure they’re rotated frequently to keep the water fresh.
2. Water Pouches
Water pouches are specifically designed for **long-term storage** of up to 5 years. Each pouch contains approximately **4.227 ounces**, which is the amount recommended by the Red Cross per meal in an emergency.
- Easy to store and carry.
- No need to save partially used pouches.
3. Water Boxes
Water boxes, similar to juice boxes, are also built for long-term storage (5 years). The **Aqua Blox Water Boxes** hold **8.5 ounces**, which is double the recommended amount per meal. These are especially useful for children since they come with a straw for easy drinking.
Shelter-in-Place Water Storage Options
For Shelter-in-Place situations, it’s important to consider whether your water storage will be **stationary** or **portable**. Ideally, you should have a combination of both.
1. Water Barrels (Stationary Storage)
Water barrels are the best option for **large, stationary storage**. They come in a variety of sizes:
- 55-gallon barrels
- 30-gallon barrels
- 15-gallon barrels
Store these barrels in a **cool, dark place** to prevent algae growth and water contamination. If that’s not possible, avoid direct sunlight and minimize temperature fluctuations.
Don’t forget essential accessories like:
- A siphon to access the water.
- A bung wrench for opening and closing barrels.
2. 5-Gallon Stackable Containers (Portable Storage)
The 5-gallon stackable container is ideal for portable long-term storage because it:
- Can be stacked to save space.
- Is **lightweight** and easy to transport.
This is a versatile option, allowing you to store multiple containers in a small area while maintaining portability.
How Much Water Should You Store?
To determine how much water you need, plan for a minimum of **1 gallon of water per person per day**. This amount covers both drinking and basic hygiene needs.
For example:
- Family of 4 for 3 days = 12 gallons of water
- Family of 2 for 7 days = 14 gallons of water
Make sure to adjust based on your family size and the duration of the emergency you’re preparing for.
Be Prepared with Emergency Water Storage
Now that you know the best options for Grab-and-Go and Shelter-in-Place water storage, it’s time to take action. Start by calculating your family’s water needs and choosing the storage solutions that work for you.
To get started, visit the Water Storage Section of The Ready Store for high-quality emergency water supplies.
