Water is the foundation of survival. You can go weeks without food, but without water, you’re in serious trouble within days. In this episode, we’ll dive into the essentials of emergency water storage and purification, ensuring you’re prepared for any crisis.

The first step in water preparedness is storage. You’ll need at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. For a family of four, that’s 28 gallons per week! Options include large barrels, stackable water containers, or repurposing food-grade containers.

Even with stored water, contamination can happen. Have a few purification methods ready. Boiling water is simple and reliable, but it requires fuel and time. Filters, like those from Berkey or Sawyer, are portable and effective. Chemical treatments, such as water purification tablets or bleach (unscented, 5.25-8.25% sodium hypochlorite), are another backup. Just remember, 2 drops of bleach per quart will do the trick.

Freezing temperatures can ruin stored water, so insulate your containers if you’re in a cold climate. For long-term storage, consider adding water stabilizers to prevent bacterial growth. Rainwater collection is another excellent option.

How much water is enough? More than you think. Water isn’t just for drinking; it’s for cooking, cleaning, and even barter in a pinch. Take inventory of your family’s needs, factor in pets or livestock, and build a solid water plan.

With proper storage and purification, water won’t be your weakest link in a crisis—it’ll be your greatest asset. Tune in to learn more!