Calculator · emergency water
How Much Emergency Water Should I Store?
The common guideline is about one gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and basic hygiene. Enter your household to see your total.
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Pets are estimated at about a quart (¼ gallon) a day for a small-to-medium pet; large dogs need more. Store more in hot weather, for nursing mothers or for anyone who is ill.
How to store emergency water
- Buy sealed bottled water, or use food-grade containers made for water.
- Keep it somewhere cool and dark, away from chemicals.
- Label containers with the date you filled them.
- Replace water you filled yourself about every six months.
- Don't forget a manual can opener and cups.
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Questions
How much water should I store per person?
A common guideline is about one gallon per person per day, for at least several days. Many families aim for two weeks at home.
How long does stored water last?
Commercially bottled water keeps until its date. Water you store yourself should be replaced about every six months.