How Much Emergency Water Should You Store?

Use this checklist before an emergency. During an active incident, local instructions take priority.

1. Ready.gov recommends at least one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation.
2. Plan additional water for pets, hot climates, illness, pregnancy and other individual needs.
3. Use suitable food-grade containers and follow storage and replacement guidance. Keep water in a cool location.
4. During an emergency, follow local boil-water or do-not-use notices. Floodwater is not safe drinking water.

Read the official guidance

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