Skip directly to search Skip directly to A to Z list Skip directly to navigation Skip directly to page options Skip directly to site content

Creating & Storing an Emergency Water Supply

Creating an emergency water supply for you and your family is an essential part of emergency preparations.

Create & Store an Emergency Water Supply

  • Store at least 1 gallon of water per day for each person and each pet. You should consider storing more water than this for hot climates, for pregnant women, and for persons who are sick.
  • Store at least a 3-day supply of water for each person and each pet. Try to store a 2-week supply, if possible.
  • Observe the expiration date for store-bought water. Replace non-store bought water every 6 months.
  • Store a bottle of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach (label should say it contains between 5-6% and 8.25% of sodium hypochlorite) to disinfect your water, if necessary, and to use for general cleaning and sanitizing.

Create a Disaster Supplies Kit

More Information

Podcast: Planning for an Emergency
a red emergency first aid box

What’s in Your Emergency Kit?
Series Name: CDC Emergency Preparedness and You
Running Time: 3:09
Release Date: 12/20/2012

Summary: An emergency kit can help you survive during a disaster. This podcast discusses supplies to include in your kit.

TOP