Creating an emergency water preparation plan is crucial for suburban residents, as access to clean water can be compromised during natural disasters, power outages, or other emergencies. Here’s a five-step guide to ensure you’re well-prepared:
1. Understand Your Water Needs
- Daily Requirement: An average person needs about one gallon of water per day for drinking and sanitation. In emergencies, this could increase.
- Family Count: Calculate the total amount needed for your family for at least three days. For a family of four, this means you should have at least 12 gallons of water.
2. Choose Suitable Storage Solutions
- Containers: Use FDA-approved water storage containers. Avoid reusing old containers that held milk or juice as they can harbor bacteria.
- Location: Store water in a cool, dark place in your house, like a basement or closet. Avoid areas with direct sunlight or heat sources.
3. Source Your Water
- Tap Water: If your tap water is safe to drink, it’s fine for emergency storage. Fill your containers directly from the tap.
- Purification: In cases where tap water isn’t safe, use water purification tablets or boiling methods before storing.
4. Regular Maintenance
- Rotation: Water should be rotated every six months to maintain freshness. Mark the storage date on the containers.
- Inspection: Regularly check for leaks or damage to the containers and replace if necessary.
5. Plan for Water Replenishment
- Alternative Sources: Identify nearby water sources like rivers or lakes as a backup. Have a plan for purifying this water.
- Emergency Supplies: Keep portable water filters or purification tablets in your emergency kit for situations where you need to rely on natural water sources.
Extra Tips:
- In case of a forecasted emergency like a hurricane, fill bathtubs and sinks with water beforehand.
- Educate family members about the importance of water conservation during emergencies.
- To save on water for hygiene, baby wipes can go a long way.
Remember, water is a critical resource in emergencies. Having a solid preparation plan can make a significant difference in your family’s safety and comfort.
