Emergency Water Storage: A Beginner’s Guide
Clean water is essential for your health. During emergencies, tap water may not be available. That’s why storing water is one of the most important preparedness steps you can take.
How Much Water Should You Store?
Store 1 gallon per person per day. This covers drinking and basic hygiene needs.
Start with a 14-day supply. That’s 14 gallons for each person in your household.
Store more if you can. A 30-day supply gives you greater peace of mind.
Some people need extra water:
- Children and seniors
- Nursing mothers
- Anyone taking medications
- People with health conditions
- Pets and livestock
Utah’s dry climate also means you may need more than the minimum.
What Containers Should You Use?
Best Options
Food-grade plastic containers (HDPE #2) are your best choice. Look for the “2” inside the recycling triangle. These include:
- 55-gallon water barrels
- 5-gallon water jugs
- WaterBrick containers
Commercially bottled water is convenient and ready to use. Rotate bottles every 2-3 years as the plastic breaks down.
Clean 2-liter soda bottles work great for free storage. Rinse them thoroughly before filling.
What NOT to Use
Never use milk jugs. They break down quickly and become brittle.
Avoid containers that held chemicals. You can’t clean them well enough for safe drinking water.
Skip glass containers. They break easily and create dangerous shards.
Choosing the Right Location
Best Locations
Cool, dark, and dry spots are ideal. Think:
- Basement storage rooms
- Interior closets
- Under stairs
Keep water between 40-60 degrees if possible.
OK Locations
You can also use:
- Garages (rotate every 1-2 years)
- Storage sheds (check regularly)
- Under bathroom sinks
Keep water away from chemicals and strong odors. The smell can seep through plastic.
Not Recommended
Avoid storing water outside unless you have no other option. If you must:
- Place on the north side of your house
- Cover with a heavy tarp
- Rotate every 6 months
- Replace containers every 5-10 years
How to Fill Your Containers
Use a drinking water hose. Regular garden hoses add contaminants and bad taste.
Fill to the top. This removes air and keeps seals tight.
Don’t add anything to city water. It’s already treated and ready for storage.
Treat well water before storing. Well water needs purification first.
Storing Your Water Safely
Protect Your Containers
Keep water off concrete. Place containers on wood pallets or 2x4s. This allows air to circulate underneath.
Block out light. Sunlight causes algae growth. Use dark containers or cover clear ones.
Store in multiple locations. Don’t keep all your water in one place.
Vary Your Container Sizes
Mix large and small containers. Large containers save space. Small containers are easier to move.
Keep some water portable. You need containers you can carry to bathrooms and kitchens.
Think about weight. A full 55-gallon barrel weighs 480 pounds. Plan where to put it before filling.
Maintaining Your Water Supply
Check Yearly
Look for these problems:
- Odd smells
- Discoloration
- Leaks
- Cracks in containers
Replace water if you find any issues.
Rotation Guidelines
City water in clean containers can last indefinitely when stored properly.
Rotate water in less-than-ideal locations every 6-12 months.
Replace commercially bottled water every 2-3 years.
Beyond Storage: Other Water Sources
Don’t stop at stored water. Know where to find water in an emergency:
In your home:
- Water heater (secure it with straps)
- Toilet tanks (not bowls)
- Ice cubes in your freezer
Near your home:
- Swimming pools (needs treatment)
- Water features (needs treatment)
- Collected rainwater (needs treatment)
Always purify water from these sources before drinking.
Water Treatment Supplies
Store water treatment supplies for when your stored water runs out:
Filtration:
- Portable water filters
- Water purification tablets
- Bleach (unscented, 6% sodium hypochlorite)
Boiling supplies:
- Camp stove and fuel
- Pots for boiling
Learn how to use these tools before you need them.
Getting Started This Week
Don’t try to do everything at once. Take it step by step:
Week 1: Buy two cases of bottled water. Put them in your storage area.
Week 2: Add a 5-gallon water jug. Fill it from your tap.
Week 3: Get a water filter for your emergency kit.
Month 2: Work toward your 14-day supply.
Month 3 and beyond: Gradually increase to a 30-day supply.
Common Questions
Does water expire?
Water doesn’t expire, but containers do. Plastic bottles break down over time.
Can I drink water that’s been stored for years?
Yes, if it was properly stored and the container is intact.
What if my water smells or tastes funny?
Discard it and refill. Odd smells suggest contamination.
How do I clean reused containers?
Use 1 teaspoon unscented bleach per quart of water. Let it sit 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly before filling
Take the Next Step
Water storage is just one part of emergency preparedness.
Learn more:
- Water treatment methods
- Emergency cooking without utilities
- Building a complete disaster supply kit
Practice using your supplies:
- Live on stored water for 2-3 days
- Test your water treatment tools
- Time how long it takes to access your water
Connect with resources:
- Contact your local emergency manager
- Visit Ready.gov for federal guidelines
- Check Utah DEQ’s water storage guidance
Remember: Any water storage is better than none. Start where you are. Build gradually. Every gallon you store today could make a difference tomorrow.