TIPS FOR STORING EMERGENCY DRINKING WATER

There are several resources you can get your water for emergency use. Did you know that if need be, the water from your toilet tank, swimming pool or spa can be used for drinking? Rain water is also a very good source. But for most people, storing water for emergency use before the need arises is more sensible.

Both glass and plastic containers are commonly used for water storage at home. Containers should be clean and sanitary. Glass containers are breakable and somewhat heavier compared to plastic, the amount of leaching (dissolving) of chemicals from glass into water is insignificant. Plastic containers are lightweight and substantially more resistant to breakage than glass, but permeable to vapors and gases.

If plastic containers are used, care should be taken to assure that they are made of food grade plastic. Approved for food contact by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Polyethylene plastic is approved for food contact and is commonly used for containers of various shapes and sizes, including large 55-gallon drums. Certain types of plastic containers are not intended for food contact (ie. vinyl plastic waterbeds, or trash containers) and may leach undersirale chemicals into stored water.

For long-term storage, water should be sterilized or disinfected. Water stored in thoroughly cleaned plastic or glass containers can be chemically disinfected for long-term storage by treating each gallon with 16 drops of liquid chlorine bleach (Clorox or Purex type bleaches, containing 4% to 6% sodium hypochlorite). One teaspoon of bleach disinfects five gallons of water. This level of treatment will prevent growth of microorganisms during storage. There are also other products now available designed specifically for long-term water storage.

Water stored in plastic containers should not be stored near gasoline, kerosene, pesticides or similar substances. Vapors from these substances could permeate the plastic and affect the water. Thick-walled polyethylene containers are significantly less permeable to vapors than are thin-walled containers. Be certain, when selecting a storage container for water, that it has a tight fitting cap or lid to prevent entrance of contaminants and evaporation of water. Sunlight has an adverse effect on plastic, water should be stored away from direct exposure to sunlight. Heat also breaks down the effectiveness of chlorine.

Sterilized or disinfected water, stored in clean food-approved containers with secure lids or caps should be safe for use even after many years of storage. Replacement of stored water with fresh water should be necessary only if the stored water becomes contaminated in some way or if the container should begin to leak. Be certain to label each container so there will be no question about its contents. Include the date and information on the method of disinfection used.

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