WATER

YOU MUST HAVE ENOUGH WATER FOR EVERY MEMBER OF THE FAMILY FOR AT LEAST 3 DAYS

• This means at least one gallon of water per person, per day.
• You will need even more for cooking and personal hygiene.
• Don't forget your pets need water, too
• You can store tap water in food grade plastic containers and clean, 2 liter soft-drink bottles.  It is best to use containers that are specifically made to store water in (these can be purchased where sporting goods are sold).
• If you purchase bottled water, always keep it in its original container, in a cool, dark place.
• Most bottled water has an expiration date on the package, but if it doesn't, mark the date it was purchased and replace it in one year.

IF YOU NEED TO TREAT WATER

If you run out of stored drinking water, you can treat water from a water heater or toilet tank (but not if a cleaner is used in the tank).  Do not use swimming pool or spa water for anything other than washing and flushing toilets.

• First strain large particles out by pouring water over layers of clean cloth or paper towels.

Then purify the water by either:

Boiling: bring water to a rolling boil for 3 to 5 minutes. It is now safe to drink. To make it a little tastier, pour it back and forth between two clean containers to re-oxygenate.

Disinfecting: If the water is

clear, add 8 drops or 1/8 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water.  If it is cloudy, add 16 drops or 1/4 teaspoon per gallon.  Shake or stir the water and let stand for 30 minutes.  Use only regular, liquid, household bleach with no added cleaners or scents.  You may still smell and taste a little chlorine, but this is perfectly safe and normal.