WATER STORAGE

From FEMA's website on Food Storage (www.fema.gov/pdf/library/f&web.pdf)
"Having an ample supply of clean water is a top priority in an
emergency. 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
two-week supply of water for each member of your family. If you
are unable to store this quantity, store as much as you can."

Below is a list of water storage options to get you started:

5-Gallon Mylar Water Bag

Water storage on a smaller scale. These 5 gallon Mylar bags are tough, convenient, and economical. The 5 gallon Mylar bags keep oxygen out and evacuate completely. Since these are easily crushable, it is recommended that they be stored in boxes. Boxes add to the appeal of this type of storage because they take up little space and are economical to ship and store.   Cost-  around $3-$4  each  ( supply your own boxes)

Basic 25 Gallon Boxed Water Kit

When the emergency requires you to evacuate, this basic 25 gallon boxed water kit possibly is, besides your family, the most important item to take with you. After filling, each water box weighs approximately 40 lbs. The basic 25 gallon boxed water kit includes five heavy-duty (stackable up to three high to save space) box each with its own metalized five-gallon water storage bag with pour spout. In an emergency, the heavy-duty boxes can be converted to portable toilets, making the basic 25 gallon boxed water kit even more useful.   Cost- around $30-$40

WaterBrick 3.5 Gallon

These unique water containers, unlike any other, are a convenient and economical way to store water and dry foods. They can hold 3.5 Gallons of liquids or up to 27 Pounds of grain and other granular dry foods. The conical supports inside a WaterBrick allow enough support to cross stack them 4 feet high.  Cost- around $18 each  

 Water Tanks

Water tanks come in various sizes and can require more room.  Some I have seen are a 260 gallon tank that is oval shaped and designed to fit through all standard 29" doorways. With this tank you'll store as much water as five 55 gallon drums utilizing only 7 square feet of floor space. 260 gallon for about $430.  I have also seen a 525 gallon tank for about $600.

Water Pouches (small single serving- come in cases)

Usually packaged in the exact amount of water recommended by The Red Cross for each meal—4.227 oz.    Pouches cost around 60 cents each.

Water Boxes (small single serving- come in cases)

Water boxes (sized like kids’ juice boxes)  can be stored for 5 years and provide a great source of emergency water. Ideal for 72 hour kits or storing in your car, home or office. Some boxes come with a straw. About  8.45 oz. of water.  Cost is  60 cents to $1.25 each.

Canned Drinking Water

25 year Shelf Life | Open & Drink | BPA Free.  Is a more expensive option, but saves you the hassle of rotating water.  Have seen box of 12, 24oz. cans for around $50.

Water Barrels

A 55 gallon water barrel is one of the easiest, most efficient ways to maintain your long-term permanent home water storage supply. Each 55 gallon water barrel provides enough water for drinking, cooking, and light personal sanitation for a family of 4. This amount is recommended as a minimum supply of emergency water.  Also come in other sizes, such as 15 and 30 gallon.  Cost around $75.  Additional cost to purchase a wrench and siphon.

Filtered Water Bottles

Nice to have in a 72 Hour Kit to make almost any water drinkable.  Cost $25-$70  Things to consider:

• The smaller the micron level, the more it will filter out
• The smaller the micron level, the slower the water flow
• How many gallons of water will it filter
• Some filters are replaceable, others are attached to bottle so you have to buy entire new unit at end of use
• Is the bottle made of bpa-free, food grade plastic
• How does it perform to limit odors and tastes