Planning for Water Needs for Survival in an Emergency
In an emergency, a reliable water supply is crucial for survival. The general recommendation is to carry one gallon of water per person per day. For most people, this means carrying at least three gallons at all times. Sufficient access to water can make the difference between life and death during a crisis.
Ideally, you should have enough water for at least three weeks to handle most emergencies. If you are in an area where you might become stranded, consider carrying enough water for up to six weeks. Although challenging, this can be accomplished with careful planning and preparation.
A rough guide to daily water needs in different scenarios:
- Civil unrest: 3-5 gallons per person
- Food shortage: 2-3 gallons per person
- Wildfire: 1-2 gallons per person
The amount of water needed varies depending on factors such as activity level and type of food. For example, physical exertion increases water needs, and dry foods require water for preparation.
Collect and store water to survive
Water is essential for both drinking and hygiene, so collecting and storing it is essential in survival situations. Different methods of collecting water have their advantages and disadvantages. While storing water in individual containers ensures its availability, it can be cumbersome. Collecting from natural sources is another option, although it can be difficult and time-consuming. Using a water filtration device is effective, but not always practical due to cost or availability.
A practical way to store water is to use a water storage container, which can be filled and sealed to keep water safe in case of emergencies. However, this method is not portable, which is a challenge if you need to transport water over long distances.
Summary of water collection methods:
- Carrying water: Use bags, backpacks, or jugs.
- Protecting natural resources: Use ponds, lakes, streams, or springs.
- Using technology: Use physical or chemical filtration or cooking techniques.
- Large containers: Consider water towers or large metal/plastic containers.
Water Survival Basics
Understanding water survival involves three basic principles:
- Conservation: Recognize the importance of water and conserve it. Use waterproof containers, such as plastic, metal, or glass, and store them in cool, dry places.
- Clean Water: Learn how to filter and purify water. Use water filters, barrels or cloth filters for filtration and purification kits, distillation or boiling equipment for purification.
- Storage: Store water in tightly sealed containers, fill them completely and store in a cool, dry place.
An advanced option is to make a water collection system with PVC pipes, which is cheap and easy to install. Hoses can be sealed and transported when needed. Alternatively, building a large water storage container or water tower out of materials such as plastic or metal is another effective option. Make sure the container is sturdy, waterproof, and easily accessible.
