Preserving and Storing Water

When organizing supplies for an emergency, remember that you may need to get to them after an emergency has turned your house into mess. Store supplies in an easy to find location that has a minimal chance of being buried under falling objects. If you are short on space, a large trash can, stored in a utility room or just inside the garage for easy access, makes an excellent storage container (if you live in an apartment, the container can be hidden under a decorative tablecloth). Emergencies can happen at any time. Are you prepared right now? Have you checked expiration dates or rotated your food and water supplies in the last six months? If not, make time on your calendar. Do it now!

Tips for Water:

A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts (half gallon) of water each day. People in hot environments, children, nursing mothers, and ill people will require even more. You will also need water for food preparation and hygiene. Store at least one gallon per person, per day. Consider storing at least a seven day supply of water for each member of your family. If you are unable to store this quantity, store as much as you can.

To prepare the safest and most reliable emergency supply of water, it is recommended that you purchase commercially bottled water. Keep bottled water in its original container, and do not open it until you need to use it. Store bottled water in the original sealed container, and observe the expiration or “use by” date.

If you are going to prepare your own water supply, it is recommended to only use food-grade water storage containers. (It is not recommended to reuse or repurpose old soda, milk or other bottles or containers.) Store water in a cool dark area. It is recommended to use a commercially available “water preserver” which will stabilize the water for long term storage (refer to preserver manufacturer for details); if not using a water preserver, drain, clean and refill containers every 6 months. Always write the date you filled the water container so you can rotate as needed.

Download and print the Ready Burbank Emergency Supplies Guide & Checklist below (this document will help you put together your home emergency kit).