Let’s talk about drinking water for emergencies. After a disaster, water supplies can be contaminated or unavailable. FEMA recommends storing at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days, for drinking and sanitation.
However, individual needs vary, depending on age, health, physical condition, activity, diet and climate. Children, nursing mothers and sick people may need more water.
Remember:
- Never ration drinking water unless ordered to do so by authorities. Minimize the amount of water your body needs by reducing activity and staying cool.
- Drink water that you know is not contaminated first. If necessary, suspicious water, such as cloudy water from regular faucets or water from streams or ponds, can be used after it has been treated. If water treatment is not possible, put off drinking suspicious water as long as possible, but do not become dehydrated.
- Do not drink carbonated or caffeinated beverages instead of drinking water.
Source: FEMA and Palo Alto Emergency Services Volunteers
Source: https://www.ready.gov/water