The Ultimate Guide to Water Storage for Long-Term Survival

Introduction

Water is the cornerstone of survival. In any emergency or survival situation, securing a reliable source of clean water is paramount. While food and shelter are also crucial, the human body can survive far longer without food than it can without water. This fundamental necessity is why water storage should be at the top of any preparedness plan.

Understanding the importance of water goes beyond its obvious basic function of quenching thirst. Water is integral to numerous bodily functions, including digestion, temperature regulation, joint lubrication, and waste elimination. Without adequate hydration, the body quickly succumbs to dehydration, which can impair physical and cognitive functions, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and even more severe health issues like kidney failure and heat exhaustion​.

In survival scenarios, access to clean, safe drinking water can mean the difference between life and death. Natural water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and streams, may be contaminated with pathogens or chemicals, posing significant health risks if consumed untreated. Diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and giardiasis are common waterborne illnesses that can incapacitate or even kill, particularly when medical help is not readily available​​.

To learn more about the risks of untreated water and the various methods of treating that water, read our guides below!

In emergency situations, the mantra “Water is life” holds especially true. By taking proactive steps to store and purify water, you not only safeguard your health but also gain peace of mind, knowing that you can sustain yourself and your loved ones even when conventional water sources are compromised​​. Water storage is not just about quantity but also about quality and accessibility.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best practices for storing water for long-term survival. From understanding daily water requirements and selecting the right storage containers to implementing effective purification methods and ensuring proper maintenance, this guide covers it all. Whether you are a seasoned prepper or just starting to consider emergency preparedness, this detailed resource will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to secure a safe and reliable water supply.

Understanding Water Requirements

Water is the essence of survival. It’s not just about quenching thirst; water is involved in nearly every bodily function. To prepare effectively for long-term survival, understanding how much water you need daily is crucial.

Daily Water Needs

On average, a person needs between 2.5 to 3 liters (about 0.66 to 0.79 gallons) of water per day to maintain basic physiological functions. This amount can vary based on several factors, including age, sex, physical activity, and environmental conditions. For simplicity and to ensure a safety margin, it’s often recommended to round this up to a gallon (or about 4 liters) per person per day​​​​ just to maintain physiological function.

In survival situations, these needs can increase. High temperatures, physical exertion, and stress can cause you to lose more water through sweat and respiration. For instance, someone engaging in strenuous activity in a hot climate might need upwards of 1.25-1.5 gallons of water (5 to 6 liters) per day to stay properly hydrated​.

Special Considerations

1. Children and Elderly: Children are more susceptible to dehydration due to a higher metabolic rate and higher evaporative losses because of their higher surface area to volume ratio, which in turn makes them lose water faster. They also might not recognize or communicate their need for water as effectively. The elderly, on the other hand, may have a diminished sense of thirst and can also be more prone to dehydration due to various health issues. Both groups should have their water needs carefully monitored and slightly increased​, our recommendation is by an extra 0.25-0.5 gallons per day.
2. Pregnant and Nursing Women: Hydration is crucial for pregnant and nursing women. They need additional fluids to support the growing fetus or milk production. It’s recommended that these women consume an extra 0.5 gallons (1 liter) of water per day on top of the standard requirement.
3. Sick or Injured Individuals: Illnesses, especially those causing fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, can significantly increase water loss. Injuries, particularly those involving blood loss or severe burns, also require increased fluid intake to facilitate healing and maintain bodily functions​.

Estimating Water Needs for Survival Situations

When planning for emergencies, it’s wise to overestimate your water needs. For drinking alone, a gallon per person per day is a good rule of thumb. However, you must also account for water needed for cooking, hygiene, and sanitation. This can easily double the total amount of water required, bringing it to around 2 gallons per person per day.

For a week’s supply, you would need at least 14 gallons per person, and more if you anticipate conditions that could increase water needs, such as extreme heat or significant physical activity. Always aim to store as much water as possible because having extra is far better than running out.

Practical Tips

• Monitor Hydration: Regularly check for signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness, or fatigue. These symptoms indicate that more water is needed.
• Diverse Sources: Include a variety of water sources in your preparedness plan, such as bottled water, large storage containers, and rainwater collection systems.
• Purification Methods: Ensure you have reliable methods to purify water, as even stored water can become contaminated over time.

Water is not just a survival item; it’s a lifeline. Proper planning and understanding of your water needs will significantly increase your chances of thriving in a survival situation. Always err on the side of caution and store more water than you think you’ll need.

Selecting Water Storage Containers

Choosing the right water storage containers is like picking the best tool for the job. Your life could literally depend on it, so this isn’t the time to cut corners or make hasty decisions. Let’s dive deep into the types, sizes, materials, and considerations for selecting the perfect water storage containers.

Types of Containers

1. Plastic Containers
   • Pros: Lightweight, durable, and affordable. They come in a variety of sizes, from small portable bottles to large drums.
   • Cons: Some plastics can leach harmful chemicals, especially if they are not food-grade. They are also prone to UV degradation if stored in direct sunlight.
   • Recommendation: Always choose BPA-free, food-grade plastic containers. The HDPE (high-density polyethylene) type is generally safe for long-term water storage and is ideal as a balance of cost and durability.
2. Glass Containers
   • Pros: Glass is non-reactive, meaning it won’t leach chemicals into your water. It’s also excellent for small-scale storage and daily use.
   • Cons: Heavy, fragile, and not practical for large quantities or rough environments.
   • Recommendation: Use glass containers for smaller quantities of water, ideally stored in a cool, dark place to avoid breakage and algae growth.
3. Metal Containers
   • Pros: Extremely durable and often insulated, keeping water cool. Stainless steel is a top choice as it is resistant to rust and corrosion.
   • Cons: Expensive and heavier than plastic. If not properly maintained, they can impart a metallic taste to the water.
   • Recommendation: Ideal for portable use or in situations where durability is paramount and cost is no issue. Avoid using galvanized or aluminum containers, as they can leach metals into the water over time.

Size Options

• Small Bottles (0.25-0.5 gallons): Perfect for portability and daily use. Keep a few of these handy for grab-and-go situations. They’re also great for rationing out portions of your larger water supply.
• Medium Jugs (1.25-5.5 gallons): These are manageable for most people to carry and can be easily stored in closets or under sinks. They strike a good balance between portability and capacity.
• Large Drums (55 gallons): These are your go-to for long-term storage. They’re too heavy to move once filled, so plan your storage location carefully. Ensure you have a siphon or hand pump to access the water easily.
• Cisterns and Tanks (100+ gallons): For those of you with the space and resources, these provide a massive reserve. Ideal for basements, garages, or backyard setups. Ensure they are food-grade and have a robust filtration system for both entry and exit points. Position your stationary containers in shaded, cool areas to prevent algae growth and degradation. Regularly check and maintain these containers to ensure they remain in good condition.

Material Safety and BPA-Free Options

When it comes to choosing materials, safety should be your top priority. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical used in some plastics that can seep into food and drinks. Long-term exposure to BPA has been linked to various health issues, including hormonal disruptions and increased cancer risk. Therefore, always opt for BPA-free containers. Look for labels or certifications that indicate the plastic is food-grade and BPA-free.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Containers

1. Durability: Choose containers that can withstand the elements. Look for UV-resistant plastics if stored outside and ensure all materials can handle freezing temperatures if necessary.
2. Ease of Use: Consider how you’ll access the water. Drums and large tanks should have spigots or pumps for easy dispensing.
3. Cleanability: Containers should be easy to clean and maintain. Wide-mouth openings are preferable for this reason.
4. Storage Location: Plan where you will store your water. Avoid areas with direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or potential contamination sources like chemicals and fuels.

Selecting the right water storage containers is not just about survival; it’s about ensuring your survival in the best possible way. Invest the time and resources into getting this right, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes your way. Remember, in the world of preparedness, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Water Storage Location

Selecting the ideal location for storing your water can be the difference between maintaining a clean, safe supply and facing contamination or spoilage. Here’s how to ensure your water storage setup is top-notch.

Ideal Storage Conditions

1. Temperature: Aim to store your water at a cool, stable temperature. The sweet spot is between 50°F and 70°F. Storing water in a cool environment helps prevent the growth of microorganisms and reduces the rate of chemical leaching from plastic containers.
2. Darkness: Sunlight can wreak havoc on your stored water. UV rays can break down plastic containers and promote algae growth if any spores are present. To avoid this, store your water in a dark place, away from windows or other sources of light​​.
3. Away from Contaminants: This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often people overlook it. Keep your water storage containers away from chemicals, gasoline, pesticides, and other toxic substances. Fumes can permeate some plastics and contaminate your water, making it unsafe to drink. If storing in a garage or basement, direct contact with concrete floors can lead to contamination from chemicals leached from the cement, gasoline, or other substances spilled on the floor. Elevating containers reduces the risk of absorption and potential tainting of the stored water, as well as reduce risks of pests chewing away at your storage.

Indoor vs Outdoor Storage

• Indoor Storage: For potable water, indoor storage is generally the best option. It’s easier to control the environment, keeping the water cool and in the dark. Use spaces like basements, closets, or utility rooms. Just ensure they’re not near any hazardous materials​​.
• Outdoor Storage: Sometimes, you might need to store large quantities outside, such as in large drums or tanks. While this is feasible, take precautions to protect the water from temperature extremes and direct sunlight. Use opaque, UV-resistant containers and consider insulating the storage area or burying the tanks partially underground to maintain a more stable temperature.

Accessibility

Your stored water needs to be accessible in an emergency. This means placing containers where you can easily reach them without having to move heavy items out of the way. For large containers, ensure you have a way to dispense the water easily, such as a hand pump or spigot. Avoid stacking heavy containers on high shelves where they could fall and cause injury​.

Maintenance and Rotation

Even with optimal storage conditions, water can develop a stale taste or become slightly contaminated over time. Rotate your stored water every six months to a year. This doesn’t mean you need to waste it—use it for gardening, cleaning, or other non-drinking purposes, then refill your containers with fresh, clean water​.

Label your containers with the date of storage and any treatment methods used, like adding bleach. This helps keep track of when it’s time for a rotation and ensures everyone in your household knows the water is safe to drink.

Practical Tips

1. Use Food-Grade Containers: Always use containers labeled as food-grade or specifically designed for water storage. These are typically made from HDPE (high-density polyethylene) and are BPA-free.
2. Avoid Reusing Non-Food Containers: Don’t reuse milk jugs or containers that previously held sugary beverages. Residue from these can harbor bacteria that spoil your water.
3. Elevate Large Containers: If storing large drums or tanks outside, keep them off the ground. Use pallets or wood planks to avoid direct contact with the soil, which can cause the containers to degrade faster​.

Choosing the right location and maintaining your water storage properly ensures that when you need it most, your water supply will be safe, clean, and readily available. In the world of preparedness, a little foresight and effort go a long way in safeguarding one of your most crucial survival resources.

Final Thoughts

Securing a reliable and safe water supply is fundamental to any preparedness plan. Whether you’re facing a natural disaster, a prolonged emergency, or simply want to be ready for unexpected events, understanding and implementing proper water storage techniques can be a lifesaver.

Preparedness is all about foresight and taking proactive steps to ensure your safety and well-being in any situation. Water is your most vital resource, and with the right knowledge and practices, you can secure a reliable supply that will see you through any emergency. Remember, in the realm of survival, there’s no such thing as being too prepared. Your life and the lives of your loved ones could depend on it, so take these guidelines seriously and implement them with care and diligence.

Stay prepared, stay safe, and always prioritize your water storage—because when the taps run dry, you’ll be glad you did.

Further Reading

Importance of Clean Water in Survival Situations

DeepSurvival

Water for Survival

Mayo Clinic

Minimum Water to Survive Each Day

Finding Water in Survival Situations

​​Purifying Water in the Wilderness

CDC

Stay Informed. Stay Ready.