If you live in an urban area, you’re probably used to the luxury of being able to turn on the tap and have fresh water at your fingertips. But what would you do if that water was cut off for an extended period of time? How do you store water long-term?
You may not think that water storage is a big deal, but if you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, earthquakes, or other natural disasters, then you know that it’s always better to be prepared.
While there are a lot of doomsday preppers out there who go to extremes to store water long-term, you don’t have to be one of them. You can store water long-term without becoming a crazy prepper – and in this article, we’re going to show you how.
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Why you should store water long-term
When it comes to emergencies, access to clean and safe drinking water is a vital necessity. If something unexpected happens that shuts off your water supply, or contaminates it, you’re going to need a way to have access to a clean water supply – and that’s why storing water long-term is so important.
Long-term water storage is best suited for people who live in areas prone to natural disasters, or who may experience an extended power outages. It’s a good idea to store at least 3-4 days’ worth of water for you and your family to drink, cook, and perform other hygiene functions. That way, you are sure to have enough water to sustain you until the power returns or the water supply has been restored.
The 3 best way to store water long-term
When it comes to storing water for long-term use, there are three main methods: water bottles, rain barrels, and water tanks. All three methods are effective and safe.
Water Bottles
Water bottles are the most popular and accessible way to store water long-term. They come in all shapes and sizes, and they’re an ideal option for those who live in apartments or small homes. You can fill water bottles with tap water and store them away in a cool, dark place. Be sure you use the right kind of water bottle – not all water bottles are designed to be stored for long periods of time, so be sure to read the label before using them.
Rain Barrels
Another great way to store water long-term is by using rain barrels. Rain barrels are large containers and are designed to catch rainwater and store it for future use. The rainwater can then be used for various tasks such as watering plants, cleaning, or even drinking (if it has been properly filtered and treated). Rain barrels are a great way to collect, store, and use free water. We use ours to help water the garden during the summer.
Water Tanks
The third option for storing water long-term is water tanks. Water tanks come in all shapes and sizes, and they are designed to store large amounts of water – usually several thousand gallons. They are perfect for those who live in rural areas and have access to natural rainwater. Water tanks can also be used to collect and store water from other sources such as wells, rivers, and streams.
How To Rotate Your Stored Water So It Stays Fresh
Storing water for any length of time can put it at risk of becoming contaminated, stale, or smelly. To keep your stored water fresh, it’s important to rotate it regularly. This means replacing your stored water with fresh water on a regular basis. One good way to do this is to mark each container of stored water with a “use by” date. That way, you’ll know when it’s time to replace it. You can also use different containers for your stored water, rotating them when necessary. This helps to separate the old water from the new and ensures that the water remains fresh. You can also find smaller barrel size tanks that can easily be stored in your garage. This one also comes with a way to filter the water.
Another way to keep your stored water fresh is to add a few drops of chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide to each container. This will help to keep the water safe and clean for longer. If you are looking for more short-term water storage ideas you can check out my post on Prepping For Bad Weather.
Conclusion
Storing water long-term is an important part of emergency preparedness. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and having access to a clean, safe supply of water will make all the difference in an emergency or disaster situation. Whether you opt for water bottles, rain barrels, or water tanks, make sure to rotate your stored water regularly so it stays fresh and uncontaminated.