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Water is fundamental to human survival, playing a crucial role in hydration, hygiene, and overall health. For members of the UKSN community understanding water needs and storage is paramount. This guide delves into the realistic daily water requirements per person, recommended emergency storage amounts, calculations for various time frames, considerations for an average family of four, and best practices for safe water storage.
Daily Water Requirements: Reality vs. Recommendations
Individual Daily Needs
The amount of water an individual requires daily can vary based on factors such as age, sex, activity level, and health status. The NHS Eatwell Guide suggests that people should aim to drink 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid daily, which equates to approximately 1.5 to 2 litres. This includes water, lower-fat milk, and sugar-free drinks, including tea and coffee. It's important to note that we also obtain fluids from the foods we eat.
However, in an emergency scenario where physical activity may increase, or during outdoor adventures, water needs can rise. A general guideline is to allocate approximately 3.7 litres (about 1 gallon) per person per day, accounting for both drinking and basic hygiene needs.
Family of Four: Daily and Extended Needs
For an average family of four, daily water requirements can be calculated as follows:
Drinking Water: 2 litres per person × 4 people = 8 litres
Hygiene and Cooking: Approximately 1.7 litres per person × 4 people = 6.8 litres
Total Daily Requirement: 8 litres + 6.8 litres = 14.8 litres
Rounding up, it's prudent to store at least 15 litres per day for a family of four.
Recommended Emergency Water Storage
Short-Term Emergencies
In the UK, it's advisable to prepare for at least a three-day disruption in water supply.
For a family of four:
Total for 3 Days: 15 litres/day × 3 days = 45 litres
Extended Preparedness
For those aiming for greater self-sufficiency or anticipating longer disruptions, a two-week supply is recommended:
Total for 14 Days: 15 litres/day × 14 days = 210 litres
This aligns with guidance suggesting that individuals have at least two weeks' worth of water on hand.
Annual Water Consumption
While storing a year's supply of water is impractical for most households, understanding annual consumption provides perspective:
Individual Annual Requirement: 3.7 litres/day × 365 days ≈ 1,350.5 litres
Family of Four Annual Requirement: 1,350.5 litres × 4 ≈ 5,402 litres
This underscores the importance of having sustainable water sources and purification methods for long-term scenarios.
Safe Water Storage Practices
Proper storage ensures that your water supply remains safe and potable. Consider the following guidelines:
Choosing the Right Containers
Food-Grade Materials: Use containers made of food-grade plastic, glass, or stainless steel. Avoid containers that have previously stored non-food substances.
Size Considerations: While large barrels (e.g., 100-litre drums) are suitable for stationary storage, smaller containers (e.g., 5 to 25 litres) are portable and easier to handle during evacuations.
Preparation and Maintenance
Cleaning: Before use, wash containers with soap and water, then sanitise with a solution of 1 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per litre of water. Rinse thoroughly.
Filling: Use clean, potable (drinkable) water. In the UK, tap water is generally safe and contains residual chlorine, which helps prevent microbial growth.
Sealing: Ensure lids are airtight to prevent contamination.
Labelling: Mark containers with the date of storage and indicate "Drinking Water."
Storage Conditions
Environment: Store water in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, which can promote algae growth and degrade plastics.
Elevation: Keep containers off the ground to prevent potential contamination and to allow for easier access.
Rotation and Replacement
Regular Rotation: Even with proper storage, it's advisable to replace stored water every six months to ensure freshness.
Inspection: Periodically check for signs of contamination, such as cloudiness or odour. If in doubt, purify or replace the water.
Alternative Water Sources and Purification
In situations where stored water is insufficient, identifying alternative sources and knowing how to purify them is essential.
Potential Water Sources
Natural Bodies: Rivers, streams, and lakes can be sources but require purification.
Rainwater: Collecting rainwater is legal in the UK and can be a valuable resource when properly harvested and treated.
Indoor Sources: Water heaters, toilet tanks (not bowls), and melted ice cubes can provide additional water in emergencies.
Purification Methods
Boiling: Bringing water to a rolling boil for at least one minute kills most pathogens.
Chemical Treatment: Water purification tablets or unscented household bleach (add 2 drops per litre, mix well, and let stand for 30 minutes) can disinfect water.
Filtration: Portable water filters can remove bacteria and protozoa; ensure the filter's specifications match your needs.
Community Collaboration and Resources
One of the strengths of the UKSN community is mutual assistance. Collaborating with fellow members can enhance water security:
Shared Storage Solutions: Pooling resources within a local UKSN Charter can provide additional resilience.
Skills Exchange: Members can share knowledge on rainwater harvesting, filtration techniques, and long-term storage solutions.
Final Thoughts
Water is a cornerstone of preparedness and self-sufficiency. Understanding realistic consumption needs, adhering to recommended storage guidelines, and implementing safe storage and purification methods can significantly enhance personal and community resilience. By planning ahead and leveraging UKSN's collective expertise, members can ensure they have adequate water supplies for any situation.
Whether you're preparing for a temporary disruption, planning an off-grid adventure, or strengthening your household's self-sufficiency, water security should be a top priority. Start assessing your current water storage today and take proactive steps to safeguard your supply.
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