Every household needs water storage.

The industry standard calls for 1 gallon per person per day for 14 days for your water storage needs. If you live in a desert area, store 1 ½ gallons per person per day. These recommended amounts cover drinking, cooking, and basic (limited) washing and sanitation needs.

There are a variety of ways to store water that accommodate large families, small families, individuals, people with plenty of storage space as well as those with limited storage space. Find what method works for you and get started. It is possibly one of the most life saving items you will store!

Water Barrels

• The most economical way to store water is in a 55-gallon barrel. They are mass produced and store the most water at the least cost per gallon. However, there are many other sizes of barrels on the market. Find one that fits your needs, space, and wallet. You may need to purchase a bung wrench to remove and replace the plugs on top that are used to fill and empty the barrels. And if your water barrel is not equipped with a spigot, you will also need to purchase a siphon hose or siphon pump. Plan to store these items next to your water barrel."
• Before filling your barrels, decide where you want to store them. You will not be able to move larger barrels once they are filled with water. A 55-gallon water barrel weighs 440 lbs.! Water barrels should not be stored directly on cement. Place them on a wooden pallet or two 2x4 pieces of wood. It is also recommended that you NOT store your barrels outside in direct sunlight. If you must store them outdoors, cover your barrels with a tarp and secure well.
• You can fill your water barrel with tap water. However, storing water for long periods of time does require an additive. Use 1 teaspoon of non-scented bleach for every 10 gallons of water (5-1/2 teaspoons for a 55-gallon barrel) and plan to rotate your barrels every year. Or you can purchase Water Preserver Concentrate on the Products page of our website www.preparemylife.com. Water Preserver Concentrate will preserve the water in your barrels for FIVE years. I think that is awesome because emptying and filling water barrels is a chore worse than defrosting the freezer! And it is totally worth the few dollars per year to not have to do this chore and to not have to dump 55 gallons of water each year even if it is on my lawn! Always label your barrels with the date you fill it and the date it should be rotated.

Helpful Hint: Store a couple of 5-gallon containers that have a spigot. When you need to use the water in your larger barrels, siphon or drain the water into the 5-gallon container which is easily transported to the kitchen and/or bathroom. You now have “running” water where you need it. Check out the 5-gallon Aqua Pak on the Products page of www.preparemylife.com