Beautiful Plants For Your Interior
Top 17 Water Storage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them: A Guide for Emergency Preparedness
Storing water is a critical step in emergency preparedness, but even small mistakes can compromise its safety and quality. Whether you’re new to water storage or have years of experience, avoiding common errors can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the most frequent water storage mistakes and offer practical solutions to help you ensure your water supply remains clean and usable when you need it most.
The Risks of Improper Water Storage
The consequences of improper water storage can range from minor inconveniences to serious health risks, including:
- Contamination leading to waterborne illness
- Degradation of water quality, making it unpalatable or unsafe to drink
- Waste of resources due to spoilage or leakage
- Inadequate supply during emergencies
By avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that your stored water remains a reliable resource in times of need.
15 Common Water Storage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
#1 Using the wrong container type
Mistake
One of the most frequent errors is using non-food-grade containers for water storage. These containers may leach harmful chemicals into the water over time.
Solution
Always choose food-grade containers specifically designed for water storage. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of chemical contamination.
#2 Failing to sanitize the container properly
Mistake:
Failing to clean containers before filling them can introduce bacteria and other contaminants into your water supply.
Solution:
Thoroughly clean and sanitize containers before each use. Rinse thoroughly before filling with water for storage.
#3 Overfilling the container
Mistake:
Filling containers to the brim leaves no room for expansion, which can be problematic in freezing temperatures.
Solution:
Leave about 1 inch of air space at the top of filled containers. This is especially important if there’s a risk of freezing temperatures, as water expands when it freezes.
#4 Improperly sealing the water container
Mistake:
Using containers with loose or improper seals can lead to contamination or evaporation.
Solution:
Ensure all containers are tightly sealed. Consider using containers with tamper-evident seals for added security and to easily identify if a container has been opened.
#5 Not labeling the container
Mistake:
You rely on your memory to tell you when it’s time to rotate your water storage containers, but you are human and may easily forget.
Solution:
Label your water containers with the date they were filled and the next scheduled rotation date.
#6 Storing untreated tap water longer than 6 months
Mistake:
Storing tap water for extended periods without adding water preservers can lead to bacterial growth and contamination.
Solution:
For long-term water storage, add a water preserver to help keep the water safe for up to 5 years.
#7 Using unsafe tap water as your water source
Mistake:
Taking for granted that your tap water is safe
Solution:
Chances are that your tap water will be safe. However, do not use tap water unless you know it’s safe. Municipal water supplies can become contaminated for various reasons, especially during an emergency. Learn how to find out if your tap water is safe. If you have any doubt, purify the water first.
#8 Storing water in the sunlight
Mistake:
Storing water in direct sunlight promotes the growth of algae and bacteria.
Solution:
Store water in a cool, dark place like a basement, pantry, or closet. Avoid outdoor storage unless you are using specially designed, UV-resistant containers.
#9 Exposing water to extreme temperatures
Mistake:
Storing water with extreme temperatures can cause degradation of the containers over time. High temps can cause the plastic to break down. Freezing temps can cause containers to crack and leak.
Solution:
Store water in temperatures ideally between 50–70°F (10–21°C). If storing outdoors, place containers in a shaded area. In colder climates, insulate your containers by wrapping them in blankets or storing them inside insulated cabinets to prevent freezing.
#10 Storing water near contaminants
Mistake:
Placing water containers near chemicals or in contaminated areas can lead to cross-contamination. Placing containers on the ground can cause leaching over time.
Solution:
Store water in a clean, dry area away from potential contaminants. Designate a specific area for water storage, separate from household chemicals, pesticides, or other potentially harmful substances. Be sure to elevate all containers from the ground.
Learn more about proper storage conditions
#11 Neglecting water quality inspections
Mistake:
Assuming stored water remains safe indefinitely without inspection.
Solution:
Regularly inspect stored water for signs of contamination. Check for cloudiness, odors, or unusual colors before use. If in doubt, it’s better to replace the water than risk using contaminated supplies.
#12 Not rotating water storage on schedule
Mistake:
Not rotating water at the appropriate time. Even properly stored water can become stale or develop a strange taste over time if it is not rotated on time.
Solution:
Adhere to a proper rotation schedule: Set reminders to rotate water every 6 months if no preservative is used, or every 5 years with preservatives.
#13 Not rotating water storage at all
Mistake:
Thinking water does not need rotation and can be stored indefinitely without replacement. Though water does not spoil like food, non-rotation can lead to severe degradation in quality and safety.
Solution:
Understanding water rotation is important for safe, drinkable water. Learn to make it part of your emergency preparedness plan.
#14 Ignoring water retrieval challenges
Mistake:
Many people focus on storing water but overlook how they’ll access it during an emergency. If your containers are too heavy or stored in hard-to-reach areas, retrieving water could be difficult. Some may forget “how” they will get the water out of the barrels for use.
Solution:
If you’re using large barrels such as the popular 55-gallon type, store them in an area that provides easy access and invest in a siphon pump to make accessing the water easier.
#15 Overlooking the need for portability
Mistake:
Focusing only on large, stationary containers can leave you vulnerable during an evacuation and unable to carry water into your home in a convenient manner.
Solution:
Incorporate smaller, portable containers, like 5-gallon jugs, into your water storage plan. These are easier to transport and can be used to siphon water from larger barrels during emergencies. Having a variety of container sizes ensures you’re prepared for different scenarios.
#16 Keeping all stored water in one location
Mistake:
Storing your water storage in one area of your home only. This can quickly become a problem if this location gets cut off from the rest of the home during an emergency.
Solution:
Distribute water storage throughout your home. Keep smaller containers in easily accessible locations like the kitchen or bathroom, and store larger containers in a basement or garage.
#17 Underestimating water needs during an emergency
Mistake:
One of the most common mistakes is underestimating how much water you need for your household during an emergency. You may think you have stored enough for drinking but have neglected to plan for other water needs as well like cooking, cleaning, and hygiene.
Solution:
For short-term storage, follow the 1-gallon-per-person-per-day rule and aim for a minimum of 2 weeks if you can. If you think you will need more to cover your needs, consider storing more. For long-term storage, use the space you have to the best of your ability. Because we can only feasibly store so much water, having a non-potable source as backup is critical. Decide today what non-potable sources you and your family will be using and have purification methods on hand to treat this water before drinking it.
Conclusion: Secure Your Water Supply with These Simple Fixes
Proper water storage is a critical component of emergency preparedness. It’s not just about stockpiling the correct amount. Paying proper attention to every step of the water storage process is vital. Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure that your water storage is safe and accessible when you need it most. Ready to take your water storage to the next level? Start by reviewing your current water supply setup and make any necessary changes to improve its safety and longevity.
