Children use slightly less than adults. Each cat or dog needs roughly 1/2 gallon per day. Larger animals (horses, livestock) require much more.
How long do you want to prepare for?
2 weeks is the current Red Cross and many state emergency management recommendation. FEMA recommends 3 days as an absolute minimum.
Use level
FEMA recommends 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and basic hygiene. Standard adds limited cooking and washing. Full assumes normal toilet flushing and showers (requires a well or stored bulk water).
Storage container
5-gallon BPA-free jugs are the sweet spot for most households – manageable weight, easy to rotate, fits under stairs or in closets.
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8.3 lbs per gallon
Rotate stored water every 6-12 months. Use food-grade BPA-free containers stored in a cool, dark spot away from gasoline, pesticides, or strong odors (the plastic can absorb fumes). Tap water from a chlorinated municipal supply needs no treatment when stored properly. Well water or untreated sources should be filtered and treated with bleach (8 drops of unscented household bleach per gallon) or boiled before drinking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water should I store per person for an emergency?
The standard guideline is one gallon per person per day, covering both drinking and basic sanitation. Store at least a 3-day supply, though 2 weeks is recommended for extended emergencies.
Do pets need extra water stored too?
Yes, plan for roughly half a gallon to one gallon per day per pet depending on their size, in addition to your household’s human water storage.
What’s the best container for long-term water storage?
Food-grade plastic containers (BPA-free) designed for water storage are ideal. Avoid containers that previously held non-food items, since residue can contaminate stored water.
How often should stored water be rotated or replaced?
Commercially bottled water can last years unopened, but water stored in personal containers should be rotated every 6-12 months to stay fresh.
Should I account for cooking water in my emergency supply?
Yes, the one-gallon-per-day guideline already factors in modest cooking and hygiene use, but households that cook water-intensive meals may want to store extra.
