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Water Security

Water Storage Checklist

Water is the first thing you will miss in a crisis and the hardest to do without. This checklist walks you through storing enough clean water, keeping it fresh, and having a backup way to purify more.

Set your storage goal

Aim for at least one gallon per person per day, for a minimum of two weeks.

  • Count everyone in your household, including guests you might shelter
  • Multiply people by 14 gallons to set your two-week minimum
  • Add extra for pets, cooking, and basic hygiene
  • Write your target number where the family can see it

Store it safely

  • Use food-grade containers made for water storage
  • Keep containers off concrete and out of direct sunlight
  • Label each container with the date it was filled
  • Store water in more than one location if you can

Keep a way to purify more

  • Keep a quality water filter on hand and know how to use it
  • Store the means to boil water if the power is out
  • Keep unscented household bleach or purification tablets as a backup
  • Identify the nearest natural water source you could reach on foot

Rotate and maintain

  • Check stored water every six months
  • Refresh any water that looks or smells off
  • Inspect containers for leaks or damage
  • Restock filters and supplies as they are used
But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst.John 4:14