Storing an emergency water supply is simple
Your emergency water supply can consist of bottled water that you buy from a store, or you can fill your own containers. If you buy bottled water, be sure to keep it in its original container and do not open it until you need to use it.
If you use your own container, make sure that it has a tight seal, is made of food-grade plastic or steel designed to hold water, and is properly sanitized before you fill it with tap water.
Sanitizing your container
- Use dish soap and clean water to wash your container and its cap thoroughly.
- Rinse your container well with clean water.
- Mix one teaspoon of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach with four cups of water.
- Pour the bleach mixture into your container, replace the cap, and tighten.
- Vigorously shake your container for 30 seconds, making sure all of the surfaces are covered.
- Pour out the bleach water and let your empty container air dry.
Filling your sanitized container
- Fill your container to the very top — be careful not to touch the opening with your hands or the faucet as this might contaminate your water or container.
- This step varies slightly depending on where your water comes from:
- from a well or other untreated source ➜ you will need to add 1/8 teaspoon of bleach per gallon
- from a water provider, like a city ➜ you do not need to add bleach to your water because it is already treated
- Place the cap back on. Be careful not to touch the bottom or inside of the cap as you place it on the container, and make sure it is on snugly.
- Label and date your container so that you know when you filled it.
Water storage dos and don'ts
DO buy bottled water from a store or use your own container to store water
DO use food grade containers like those found at most camping and outdoor stores or two-liter soda bottles
DON'T use containers use that are made of glass, jugs that previously held milk or juice, or containers that were used for chemicals or bleach
DO change out your water about every 6 months (it won’t go bad, so if you need it in an emergency and it’s older than six months go ahead and use it)
DO store as much water as you can (if needed, start small and build up your supply)
DO store your water in a cool, dark location (if possible)