Safe
survival water for cooking,
drinking and sanitation is a must for both short and long term survival.
Considering that each person needs at least one gallon
per day for drinking, cooking and sanitation, you can see that a
moderate amount of stored water will not last for the long term.
Water Storage -
While not rocket science,
survival water storage does have some difficulties.
Water is HEAVY and storing large volumes in a building can cause
structural damage if there is not an adequate floor support. There
are three basic methods for storing water:
Small (5 gallons or less)
containers that can be moved
Medium - Water Barrels - 40 to 55 gallons for inside bulk storage
Large Storage - Outdoor cisterns and tanks -100 to 5000 gallons
How much water you
initially store depends on the prevalence of other sources of water in
your area, such as rainfall, wells, springs, rivers and streams and how soon you will be
ready to purify natural sources.
Alternate Sources
- After your utility provided water source stops or becomes unsafe you will eventually
have to locate alternate sources of water. Pre-crisis planning
includes locating these sources and listing them in your plan.
Locating Water -
If you are in-route to your retreat or dislocated from your planned
place of refuge where you have previously identified water sources, you
need to know how to find water in your geographical location. With
knowledge, you can find water almost anywhere except the most arid parts
of the world.
Water Collection -
In the absence of engineered water systems and natural free flowing
streams, you can collect rain water, construct simple ground and plant
evaporation collectors, or use standing water sources.
Water Purification
- Most people know that suspect water should be boiled before using it
for drinking, cooking and sanitation. Your stove will work only as
long as the electricity lasts. Boiling water will only kill the micro-organic bugs, boiling WILL NOT
remove toxic chemicals or heavy metals.
Survival
water purification equipment and skills will save your life.
Next Survival Food Plan
See the ADVANCED
Area for Specific Plans
