How Much Water Do I Need??

Following is contents of an email to a friend that I thought would be good to post here

Question:

"...do you agre with this article (water - most important requirement for life) when it says we should have two 55-gal containers of water PER PERSON? that seems really high for a slightly larger family of 4-6. That would be 1 gal per day for 3 months. But for 6 people, twelve 55-gal containers would take up a large room or half my garage...I also have a couple of filters and some Bleach on hand, but I thought I was in good shape with 150 gallons..."

Response:

FEMA recommends the follow on their website:

How Much Water do I Need?

You should have at least a three-day supply of water and you should store at least one gallon of water per person per day. A normally active person needs at least one-half gallon of water daily just for drinking.

Additionally, in determining adequate quantities, take the following into account:

• Individual needs vary, depending on age, physical condition, activity, diet, and climate.
• Children, nursing mothers, and ill people need more water.
• Very hot temperatures can double the amount of water needed.
• A medical emergency might require additional water.

But in my mind, FEMA is a bare minimum...for example, my family:

5 gal per day X 3 days = 15 gallons – seems way to little

            5 gal per day X 2 weeks = 70 gallons – two weeks is more realistic

            10 gal per day X 2 weeks = 140 gallons – more comfortable living (drinking, washing, supporting other less prepared family members, etc)

I think you are right on.  Sometimes articles from “prepper” websites can be a little excessive.  On the other hand, it is very well worth it to be over-prepared that under-prepared.  Also, remember other sources of water in your home, like the water heater, water pipes, toilet tanks, etc.

And, great job on having filters, bleach and other ways to purify water…!!

I suggest to people that have the big 55gal drums, to also have a few 5 gallon containers placed around the home, in closets or something, for 3 reasons:

           

1.       if we have an earthquake and half the house lands on your main water supply, you may be able to find a 5 gal container you placed in your house in a separate location.

2.       if you need to evacuate the area, it’s much easier to take 5 gal container with you.

3.       if you run out of water and a water truck is dispatched to the area, you can take that empty 5 gal container to fill.

Just some thoughts…