How to Store & Use Water Safely During a Hurricane or Natural Disaster
Inspired by recent events, this new Simplify series is all about emergency prep and how to be ready for difficulties brought on by natural disasters.
Water is one of the most important resources to secure during a hurricane. With power outages and potential contamination of local water supplies, it’s crucial to have enough safe water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. Here’s how to properly store and use water during a hurricane to ensure you and your family stay safe.
Table of contents
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1. Storing Water Before the Hurricane
It’s recommended to store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, but more is always better. Use food-grade containers, such as clean plastic bottles or jugs, to store water.
Crystal Geyser Alpine Spring Water, Drinking Water Bottled at the Source, 6 Gallons
Pure Life® Purified Water - Three Bottle Bundle (5-Gallons each bottle)
You can also fill bathtubs, sinks, and large containers to have additional water for non-drinking purposes like flushing toilets or cleaning.
If using reusable containers, make sure to wash them with soap and hot water, then sanitize with a solution of 1 teaspoon of unscented bleach per quart of water before filling.
CloroxPro Clorox Germicidal Bleach, 121 Ounce Bottle, Pack of 3
2. Using Safe Water During a Hurricane
Once the hurricane hits, the water supply might be cut off or contaminated. Only drink water that you know is safe. Use bottled water or water that you stored before the storm.
If you need to use tap water and are unsure of its safety, boil it for at least one minute to kill any bacteria or contaminants.
If boiling isn’t possible, you can use unscented bleach (8 drops per gallon of water), or water purification tablets to disinfect it. Stir and let it sit for 30 minutes before drinking.
Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets with PA Plus
3. Conserving Water During the Storm
During a hurricane, it’s important to be mindful of your water usage. Prioritize drinking and hygiene, and limit activities like dishwashing and bathing. If you need water for washing or cleaning, use the water from tubs or other stored non-potable sources. Have hand sanitizer available for cleaning hands to conserve water.
Germ-X Original Hand Sanitizer, Non-Drying Moisturizing Gel with Vitamin E (Pack of 12)
4. Sanitation and Hygiene
Use stored or disinfected water for personal hygiene. For bathing or handwashing, a small bucket of stored water can be used. If flushing toilets is difficult, consider filling the toilet tank with water from non-drinking sources like rainwater or tub water. It’s also helpful to have moist towelettes and hand sanitizers in your emergency kit to maintain hygiene when water is scarce.
Cottonelle Fresh Feel Flushable Wet Wipes, Adult Wet Wipes, 8 Flip-Top Packs, 42 Wipes Per Pack
5. After the Storm: Testing Water Safety
Once the hurricane passes, local water supplies may be unsafe due to contamination. Check for boil water advisories from local authorities before using tap water again. Continue using bottled or disinfected water for drinking and cooking until you’re certain the supply is safe. If you suspect contamination, stick with safe water practices until the water system is restored and declared safe for use.
By properly storing and handling water, you can ensure that your family has a safe and reliable supply during and after a hurricane. Preparation is key—ensure you have enough water and purification supplies in your emergency kit to stay hydrated and healthy during the storm.
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