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Maintaining Hygiene During a Crisis: Sanitation Tips

cleaning supplies

When disaster strikes, maintaining proper hygiene is important for your health and well-being. Ensuring proper hygiene is directly linked to the health and safety of individuals and communities. Neglecting sanitation can lead to the spread of diseases and infections, which can be particularly dangerous during already challenging times. In this article, we’ll explore comprehensive sanitation tips and tricks that can help you, your family, and your community stay clean and healthy during times of crisis.

Hand Hygiene and Sanitization

  • Hand Sanitizers: Stock up on alcohol-based hand sanitizers and portable handwashing stations. Encourage regular handwashing, especially before meals and after using the restroom.
  • Wet Wipes: Wet wipes are versatile and can be used for hand and face cleaning when water is scarce.
  • Soap and Water: If water is available, regular handwashing with soap is still the most effective way to prevent the spread of illnesses. Teach your family the importance of thorough handwashing.

DID YOU KNOW? When it comes to handwashing and general hygiene, the temperature of the water you use is less important than the duration and thoroughness of the washing. Both warm and cold water can effectively remove dirt, bacteria, and viruses from your hands, as long as you follow the proper handwashing technique.

The key factors to consider are:

  1. using soap to wash your hands for sanitationDuration: The recommended handwashing duration is at least 20 seconds. This is crucial for ensuring that you thoroughly clean all parts of your hands. Remember: tops and bottoms and in between!
  2. Soap: Soap is essential for breaking down and removing germs and contaminants from your hands. Ensure you use soap and lather well during handwashing.
  3. Friction: Rubbing your hands together vigorously and ensuring you cover all areas, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails, is essential.
  4. Rinse: Rinse your hands thoroughly to remove soap and contaminants.
  5. Drying: Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dryer to prevent the spread of germs.

In many cases, warm water may be more comfortable for handwashing, especially during cold weather, but it’s not necessary for effective hand hygiene.

Water Purification and Safe Storage

  • Water Filters: Invest in water purification filters or purifying tablets. These tools can help ensure your water supply remains safe to drink and wash with.
  • Water Storage: Store an ample supply of water in food-grade containers to ensure you have clean water available.

Toilet Alternatives

  • Portable Toilets: Portable camping toilets can be incredibly convenient when regular plumbing is unavailable. Make sure to stock up on sanitation supplies for these toilets. Consider the Luggable Loo!
  • Biodegradable Toilet Paper: Ensure you have a supply of biodegradable toilet paper in your emergency kit. Lets save the environment wherever we can!
  • Plastic Bags: Use plastic bags for waste disposal in portable toilets, and securely tie them for disposal.

Most importantly – Wash Your Hands after!

Personal Hygiene Essentials

  • Wet Wipes: Wet wipes are not only useful for hand and face cleaning but can also be used for general body cleaning when water is scarce.
  • Dry Shampoo: Dry shampoo can help maintain hair hygiene when traditional washing isn’t possible.
  • Washcloths: Warm water and a washcloth may just feel like heaven if showering isn’t an optionpreparing vegetables for a healthy meal

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Populations

  • Elderly Family Members
  • Young Children
  • Pregnant Women
  • Mental Health Need

All of these groups of people have various needs, be mindful of those needs, and use your best hygiene practices!

Hygiene Education

Learn about the importance of proper hygiene and sanitation practices. Create an emergency plan that includes sanitation guidelines, and make sure everyone is familiar with it. Here are some reasons WHY it’s important to be sanitary and hygienic:

    • Disease Prevention: Good hygiene practices, such as handwashing and cleanliness, are the first line of defense against infectious diseases. Regular handwashing can prevent the spread of illnesses like colds, flu, and foodborne diseases.
    • Reduced Health Risks: Practicing good hygiene reduces the risk of infections and illnesses. It can also minimize the severity of an illness if it does occur, leading to quicker recovery.
    • Personal Well-Being: Good hygiene contributes to an individual’s overall physical and mental well-being. Feeling clean and fresh can boost self-esteem and mental health.
    • Public Health: By practicing good hygiene, your family not only protects themselves but also the community. During public health crises, like pandemics, your family’s hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of diseases to vulnerable populations.
    • Life Skills: Teaching hygiene is about imparting life skills. These skills are not only essential during a crisis but in everyday life. Proper hygiene habits are valuable and applicable in any situation.
    •  Practicing good hygiene shows respect for others. It demonstrates that your family cares about the health and well-being of those around them.

Periodic Maintenance

  • Regular Inventory Check: Periodically check and update your emergency sanitation supplies. Ensure that items like hand sanitizers and wet wipes haven’t expired or are dried out and that your water purification tools are in good working condition.

Proper sanitation during a crisis is not just about cleanliness; it’s about safeguarding your health and the health of your loved ones. By being well-prepared and knowledgeable about sanitation practices, you can minimize health risks and maintain a sense of normalcy during challenging times.

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Why Do We Need Electrolytes? Quenching Your Thirst

nuun hydration electrolyte tablets

Understanding Electrolytes – The Science Behind Them

Electrolytes are minerals that serve as electrically charged ions in the human body. These ions play a role in various bodily functions. During emergency situations their importance becomes particularly evident. The primary electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, and bicarbonate. Each of these minerals contributes to specific processes vital for our well-being:

  • Sodium is for maintaining fluid balance in and around our cells. It helps control blood pressure and aids in nerve transmission.
  • Potassium is for regulating heart rhythm, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. It helps counterbalance the effects of sodium.
  • Calcium supports bones and teeth but also muscle function, blood clotting, and nerve transmission.
  • Magnesium participates in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone health.
  • Chloride is an important component of stomach acid and aiding in digestion. It also plays a role in maintaining proper pH levels in the body.
  • Bicarbonate functions as a buffer to maintain the body’s pH level, helping to prevent excessive acidity or alkalinity.

In normal circumstances, the body maintains a balance of these electrolytes, aiding optimal health and well-being. During emergencies, this balance can be disrupted due to various factors such as increased physical activity, exposure to extreme weather conditions, limited access to clean water, and restricted access to nutritious food. This disruption can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Given the role that electrolytes play in the body’s normal functioning (especially in times of stress and hardship) it becomes important to replenish and maintain these minerals balance. This is where products like Nuun electrolyte tablets can be invaluable, as they provide a practical and portable means of addressing these needs.

Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance in Emergencies

The factors contributing to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance can include:

  • Limited access to clean water
  • Physical exertion and stress
  • Unpredictable weather conditions
  • Limited access to fresh food.
  • Limited medical resources

Nuun Electrolyte Tablets: A Solution for Emergency Preparedness

Nuun, a popular brand known for its electrolyte tablets, offers a convenient and effective solution for maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance in emergencies. These tablets are designed to dissolve quickly in water, providing a portable and easily storable source of electrolytes. Here’s why Nuun electrolyte tablets are a valuable asset in emergency preparedness:

  • Portability: Compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry in your emergency kit or backpack.
  • Versatility: Variety of flavors, making them more palatable and enjoyable to drink, encouraging regular fluid intake.
  • Electrolyte replenishment: Helps restore electrolyte balance by supplying essential minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
  • No added sugars: Low in sugar, helping to avoid blood sugar spikes and crashes during stressful situations.
  • Purity: Non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, and contain no artificial preservatives, ensuring you get the best-quality electrolytes.

Knowing When to Use Electrolytes

Here are some indicators that can help you determine when to use electrolytes:

  • Excessive Sweating:  Sweating leads to the loss of both water and electrolytes, and these need to be replenished.|
  • Signs of Dehydration: Dehydration symptoms include dark yellow urine, dry mouth, increased thirst, fatigue, and dizziness. If you notice these signs, it’s essential to rehydrate with electrolyte-containing fluids.
  • Prolonged Physical Activity: Activities such as hiking, biking, or running: using electrolytes can help maintain proper fluid balance and support your performance. Alberta Health has a chart/activity here to give more specific details on how much fluids we require to keep hydrated.
  • Illness or Infections: When you’re sick with conditions like diarrhea, vomiting, or a fever, your body loses fluids and electrolytes more rapidly. Using electrolytes can aid in replenishing what is lost and preventing dehydration.
  • Exposure to Extreme Weather: Whether it’s intense heat or cold, extreme weather conditions can lead to increased perspiration.
  • Emergency Preparedness
Conclusion:

Note that electrolyte needs can vary from person to person depending on factors such as age, sex, weight, and individual health conditions. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a nutritionist if you have specific concerns about electrolyte intake, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.

In most cases, using electrolytes when you’re engaged in activities that lead to fluid loss or when you experience signs of dehydration is a smart and proactive way to maintain your health and performance. It’s better to prevent imbalances with preventative choices. Happy hydrating!

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The XStream Water Filter Straw

waterton national park, Alberta Canada,

For day hikers and backpackers alike, ensuring a safe and reliable source of drinking water is very important. This piece of gear offers a simple and effective solution to quench your thirst while minimizing your environmental footprint.

In this article, we’ll explore how the XStream Water Filter Straw works, how to care for it, and when to use it:

How It Works

The XStream Water Filter Straw is a small but powerful water filtration system that makes water purification on the go a breeze. Here’s how it works:

  • Dual Filtration: The XStream Water Filter Straw features a dual filtration system, combining a hollow fiber membrane and a carbon filter. This two-stage filtration process is capable of removing 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.99% of viruses, and 99.9% of protozoan cysts from water sources.
  • Easy Sipping: Using this straw couldn’t be simpler. Just find a fresh water source, whether it’s a stream, river, or lake, and place the straw’s tip into the water. Then, simply sip through the straw, and the advanced filtration system will do the rest. Clean, purified water will flow through the straw and into your mouth, instantly quenching your thirst.
  • The XStream Straw comes with a hand squeeze spray pump to fill water bottles and canisters and share the clean water love.
  • Long Lifespan: The XStream Water Filter Straw is designed for longevity, with a filtration capacity of up to 250 gallons (946 liters). This means you can enjoy many many trips without worrying about filter replacement, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.

Caring for Your XStream Water Filter Straw

Proper care and maintenance of your XStream Water Filter Straw ensures it continues to perform at its best. Here are some care tips:

  • Regular Cleaning: After each use, backflush the filter by blowing air into it. Or use the included cleaning syringe to remove any trapped particles and debris.
  • Dry It Out: Allow the filter to air dry thoroughly before storing it long term to prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Avoid Freezing: Protect your straw from freezing temperatures, as this can damage the filter membrane. Store it in a warm dry place during cold seasons.

When to Use It

Knowing when to use your XStream Water Filter Straw is essential for a successful outdoor adventure:

  • Wilderness Exploration: Hiking in remote forests, trekking through mountainous terrain, and camping by a pristine lake – all of your outdoor adventures!
  • Emergency Situations: It’s not just for planned trips; the XStream Water Filter Straw can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. Keep one in your 72 hour kit or survival kit for the unexpected.
  • International Travel: If you’re an adventurer who loves exploring foreign lands, this is invaluable in regions where tap water quality may be questionable.

Video By Billy

Maybe you wanna see how it actually works? Check out Billy’s quick video giving you a visual run through on how this incredible filter works!

 

Lessons Learned the Hard Way: Hiking Carthew Alderson Trail

I’d like to share an experience that you are already one step ahead of me by having read this article! A few years ago my father and I went on a hike in Waterton National Park, Alberta, Canada.

He had completed the hike as a young man, and had forgotten how difficult it really was. Combine that with incorrect signage, the hike that should have been 15-17kms ended up actually being closer to 23kms. My father unfortunately was already pushing his limits (at 60+) doing a 15km hike.

  • FYI, I did my civic duty and called Parks Canada to inform them to update their signage

As we continued on: we ran out of food, ran out of water, and my father began moving even slower. I had a LifeStraw in my pack (which is an incredible product too), but my father is a larger man and cannot get down on the ground very well. Plus with his current state of weakening, I was concerned he wouldn’t be able to get back up. We were still in a dead zone without any service to call out for help. We did make it eventually through the experience, with many lessons learned.

When I later discovered the XStream water filter straw, the extended hose would have been incredibly helpful for him, and we could have hydrated him and provided him some safe drinking water as we worked towards completing this unexpected hike. Hydration is extremely important!

Pro tip: Be prepared! Learn from other people’s experiences and stay safe!

Conclusion:

For day hikers and backpackers, the XStream Water Filter Straw by Sagan is a game-changer in the quest for clean and safe drinking water. Grab your backpack, lace up those hiking boots, and embark on your next adventure with confidence, knowing that we have your hydration needs covered. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and keep exploring the world’s most beautiful places!

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JetBoil: Your Outdoor Cooking Companion

JetBoil 230g fuel cannister for the JetBoil portable outdoor stove

When it comes to outdoor adventures, having a reliable and efficient cooking system can change your adventure from fun to amazing. JetBoil, a popular brand among outdoor enthusiasts, offers a range of innovative products designed to make cooking in the great outdoors a breeze.

JetBoil logo

How JetBoil Works

JetBoil’s core product is a compact and lightweight cooking system that utilizes a unique design to heat water or prepare meals quickly and efficiently. The primary components of a JetBoil system include:

  1. Stove Unit: It’s designed to create a powerful, focused flame that directs heat to the bottom of the pot, minimizing heat loss and improving cooking efficiency.
  2. Cooking Pot: JetBoil pots are specially designed to work with their stoves. They feature a heat exchanger on the bottom, which captures and transfers heat to the contents. The pots come in various sizes to accommodate different cooking needs.
  3. Fuel Canister: Small, lightweight canisters of compressed gas, usually propane or isobutane. These canisters are easy to attach to the stove and provide the fuel needed for cooking.
  4. Ignition System: Most JetBoil systems include a push-button ignition, making it easy to start the stove without the need for matches or lighters.

PRO TIP: The JetBoil cannister of fuel comes in 3 sizes: 100g, 230g, and 450g.

The shipping limitations: only a certain volume of fuel can be safely sent through the mail. 900g per single shipment is the max.

 

 

Here is a video link showing how this cool product works!

 

What JetBoil Can Do

JetBoil’s versatility makes it suitable for many outdoor activities and cooking needs, including:

  1. Boiling Water: JetBoil excels at rapidly boiling water, making it ideal for preparing hot beverages like coffee and tea, rehydrating freeze-dried meals, or cooking pasta and rice.
  2. Cooking Meals: With the right accessories, you can use JetBoil for cooking a wide range of meals, from simple one-pot dishes to more elaborate outdoor gourmet creations.
  3. Simmering: Some JetBoil models allow for precise flame control, enabling you to simmer or slow-cook dishes.

When and Where to Use JetBoil

JetBoil is versatile and  used in various outdoor scenarios, such as:

  1. Camping: Provides quick and efficient cooking solutions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  2. Hiking and Backpacking: An excellent reliable cooking system without adding excess weight to packs.
  3. Climbing and Mountaineering: A favorite among climbers and mountaineers for its efficiency in high-altitude cooking.
  4. Emergency Preparedness: A valuable addition to your emergency preparedness kit, ensuring you have a reliable way to cook during power outages or other emergencies. (Make sure you are cooking outside with fresh air)

Why Use JetBoil

  1. Speed: This system can boil water in a matter of seconds, saving you valuable time and fuel.
  2. Efficiency: Its innovative design maximizes fuel efficiency, reducing the number of canisters you need to carry.
  3. Portability: JetBoil is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and ideal for adventures where every ounce matters.
  4. Reliability: Known for their durability and dependability in various weather conditions.
  5. Convenience: With push-button ignition and quick setup, JetBoil simplifies outdoor cooking

hiking

This innovative cooking system has revolutionized outdoor cooking. JetBoil  ensures you can enjoy hot meals and beverages wherever your outdoor pursuits take you. Elevate your outdoor (or emergency) culinary experience to new heights! Happy cooking!

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Printable Food Storage Inventory Checklist

checklist

Food for Thought: Food Storage Inventory Checklist

We’ve left some space for you to make this your own, and add your personal preferences!

Pantry

Canned Goods:

Soups

Vegetables

Fruits

Beans

Tomatoes

Tuna or canned meats

Dry Goods:

Pasta

Rice

Cereals

Flour

Sugar

Oats

Baking Supplies:

Baking powder

Baking soda

Spices and seasonings

Cooking oils

Vinegar

Snacks:

Chips

Crackers

Nuts

Popcorn

Granola bars

Canned Sauces and Condiments:

Pasta sauces

Salsa

Soy sauce

Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo

Salad Dressings

Hot Sauce

BBQ Sauce

Freezer

Meats and Seafood:

Chicken breasts

Ground beef

Fish fillets

Shrimp or other seafood

Frozen meat alternatives (vegetarian)

Frozen Fruits and Vegetables:

Berries

Peas & Corn

Broccoli florets

Spinach

Frozen Prepared Meals:

Frozen pizza

Frozen dinners

Frozen breakfast items

Bread and Baked Goods:

Bread

Bagels

Muffins

Wraps

Ice Cream and Desserts:

Various ice cream flavors

Frozen desserts or pastries

Fridge

Dairy Products:

Milk

Yogurt

Cheese

Butter

Proteins:

Eggs

Deli meats

Tofu or plant-based protein

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables:

Beverages:

Water

Juices

Soda or other carbonated drinks

Leftovers:

Label with dates for freshness

Soups, stews, or casseroles

Food Storage

Containers and Lids:

Plastic containers

Glass containers

Reusable bags

Aluminum foil

Plastic wrap

Compostable/disposable plates, cups, utensils

Buckets/lids/Mylar pouches

Non-Perishables:

Emergency canned goods

Freeze-dried fruits

Freeze-dried vegetables

Long-lasting grains

Powdered milk & cheeses

Freeze-dried/dehydrated meats

Bottled Water:

Check out this article for more details: Enough water for each member of the family

Spices and Seasonings:

Store spices in airtight containers

Feel free to print this checklist and use it to keep track of your food storage inventory, or to get started making your personalized version. Regularly update it to ensure you have a well-organized and well-stocked pantry, fridge, freezer, and food storage area. Contact us if you have any questions about preparing your own long term food storage.

Briden Solutions - Canada's Emergency and Outdoor Food Headquarters

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Water Purification – The Science Behind Why It’s Important

splash of water

Let’s talk about why having clean water during emergencies is so important.

The Science of Yucky Stuff in Water (technical terms of course)

Okay, so, first things first, water can sometimes have some pretty nasty stuff in it. Think of water as a complex soup. It’s not just pure H2O; it often contains all sorts of ingredients, and not all of them are friendly. We’re talking about things like bacteria, viruses, chemicals, parasites and tiny bits of dirt or worse. These things can make you sick if you drink them.

Cleaning Up Water

To make water safe to drink, we use science! There are a bunch of ways to do it, like using filters that catch the junk, or adding chemicals to kill off germs. Let’s discuss ways how we use science to make that water safe to drink.

1. Filtration: Think of filtration as a high-tech sieve. It’s like passing water through a super-fine mesh that catchesXStream water filter straw for the outdoors all the tiny particles that do not belong. The mesh lets the clean water through but traps the rest. This method works because those little troublemakers we mentioned earlier are usually larger than the holes in the filter.

We offer products for filtration such as LifeStraws, XStream Water Filters, Aquabricks & Aquadrums. Definitely check them out!

2. Chlorination: Chlorine is a chemical that can kill these microscopic bacteria and viruses. It’s tough on germs but safe for humans in the right amounts*. Water treatment plants often use this method to disinfect our tap water. Aquatabs are also a way to purify water on the go.

3. UV Treatment: Ultraviolet (UV) light is powerful enough to damage the DNA of microorganisms, making them unable to reproduce or cause harm.

4. Distillation: Imagine water as a liquid that can turn into gas when heated. Distillation is like heating water until it becomes steam, leaving behind all the rest. Then, that steam is cooled and turned back into liquid, which is now clean and pure.  End result is water transformation from dirty to pristine.

These purification methods all have a strong scientific basis. They work because they take advantage of the physical and chemical properties of water and the contaminants it might contain. Filtration relies on size differences, chlorination uses chemical reactions, UV treatment harnesses the power of light, and distillation depends on the different boiling points of water and contaminants.

pouring clean water into a classSo, the next time you enjoy a glass of clean, safe water, you can appreciate the science behind it. Lets make sure you stay healthy and hydrated, even in emergency situations.

Stopping Waterborne Diseases

Waterborne diseases are the villains that can make you feel really sick. They’re caused by tiny organisms you can’t even see without a microscope. Water purification methods work by stopping these diseases in their tracks.

Some specific waterborne diseases include cholera, typhoid fever, dysentery, giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, and hepatitis A. These illnesses are caused by various bacteria, viruses, and parasites that contaminate water sources and can lead to severe health issues when ingested.

It’s science vs. germs! Lets be sure we win.

Why Our Bodies Need Water

Our bodies are like well-oiled machines, and water is the oil that keeps everything running smoothly. Here’s some reasons why we need water:

  • Hydration: Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body needs water to work correctly. Without enough water, you can start to feel tired, sluggish, and even dizzy.
  • Temperature Regulation: When our well oiled machine moves, we get too hot then we sweat to cool down. This sweat is mostly water, and when it evaporates from our skin, it helps lower our body temperature.
  • Digestion and Nutrient Transport: Water aids digestion. It helps break down the food we eat so our bodies can absorb nutrients. It helps your body turn food into energy. Plus, it keeps everything moving smoothly in your digestive system.
  • Cell Function: Inside your body, there are trillions of tiny cells, each with a job to do. Water helps transport nutrients and oxygen into the cells and carries away waste products.
  • Joint Lubrication: Ever wonder why your joints don’t squeak or grind when you move? That’s because they’re lubricated with a special fluid made mostly of water. This fluid helps your joints move smoothly.
  • Brain Function: Your brain is about 75% water, so staying hydrated helps us think clearly and stay focused. When you’re not properly hydrated, it can be tough to concentrate and make decisions.
  • Detoxification: Water helps your body flush out toxins and waste products through urine and sweat.
  • Skin Health: Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it needs water to stay healthy. When you’re well-hydrated, your skin can look and feel better.
  • Weight Management: Drinking water can help you manage your weight. Proper hydration compliments all weight management programs.

Water isn’t just something to drink when you’re thirsty. It’s a fundamental part of your well-being and survival. Without enough clean water, your body can’t function correctly, and that’s why it’s essential to prioritize clean, safe water. Remember, water is not just a necessity; it’s a life-sustaining treasure.

Food Safety:

Clean water isn’t just for drinking; it’s also for cooking and preparing food. If the water you use to cook isn’t clean, it can make your food taste weird or even make you sick. Clean water is a must in the kitchen.

Clean water also helps sanitize the cook (hands in particular), clean the food preparation area, and the equipment needed for cooking.

In a nutshell, having clean water during emergencies isn’t just about quenching your thirst. It’s about using science to get rid of the bad stuff in water, so you don’t get sick. By understanding this science, you can see why clean water is a lifesaver during tough times. So, stay curious, stay safe, and go have a delicious large glass of water!

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SOS: 5 Mistakes to Avoid in Emergency Water Storage

Aquadrum 250g water filter with power pump

In emergency preparedness, few considerations are as pivotal as water storage. Water is a fundamental necessity for human survival, and as such, having a dependable supply during times of crisis should be non-negotiable. Today we will look at five pivotal mistakes that individuals commonly make when it comes to emergency water storage.

Mistake #1: Neglecting Water QuantityPuravai emergency drinking water

The human body is highly dependent on water, with the average person requiring a substantial daily intake for hydration and basic physiological functions. In emergency situations, you may need to plan for more water consumption due to increased physical activity, stress, or extreme temperatures.

Therefore, it’s a good practice to store at least one gallon (about 3.8 liters) of water per person per day for a minimum of three days in your emergency water supply. This accounts for your drinking needs (2 liters), cooking (1 liter), and limited hygiene needs (the rest).

Consider your household, whether there be anyone requiring increased water needs, and of course also consider your beloved household pets if you have them.

Mistake #2: Choosing Improper Containers

The integrity of water storage containers is important in maintaining water quality. Unsuitable materials can lead to chemical leaching or the penetration of contaminants, rendering stored water unsafe for consumption.

Be sure to discern the appropriate materials for long-term water storage and to avoid those materials that may compromise water quality. For example, you do not want to store water in old used chemical containers from the local car wash. Make sure you are using food grade plastic BPA free containers. Proper water storage container suggestions and ideas can be found here.

Mistake #3: Skipping Water Treatment

Water treatment, often-overlooked stands as the third critical mistake to avoid. Simply storing water is insufficient; one must also ensure its purity and safety. Neglecting water treatment methods can result in microbial contamination and waterborne diseases.

As such, individuals must familiarize themselves with proper water purification and treatment techniques, ensuring potable water. A simple water purification tablet can be quite helpful in many emergency situations. For longer term water requirements, there are also multiple options to filter your water.

Mistake #4: Storing Water in Inadequate Locations

The fourth error in emergency water storage pertains to the selection of inadequate storage locations. Placing water containers in suboptimal environments exposes stored water to contaminates and can compromise the integrity of the water supply. It is suggested NOT to store water in direct sunlight, next to chemicals or contaminants, in unsanitary conditions, or directly on concrete floors (best raised on a pallet or box). The chemicals in the floor can transfer through to your water storage if you store a water container directly on a cement floor.

Mistake #5: Failing to Rotate Water Supplies

The fifth mistake is the failure to rotate water supplies. It is suggested that:

  1. Commercially Bottled Water: Sealed, commercially bottled water typically has a 1 – 2 year shelf life if stored in a cool, dark, and dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. However, it is good practice to check the expiration date on the bottles.
  2. Tap Water: If you’re storing tap water in clean, food-grade containers, it can be stored for about 12- 18 months without significant degradation in quality, assuming it has been properly treated and stored in a sanitary manner. It’s ideal to rotate stored tap water every 6 months to ensure freshness.
  3. Filtered or Purified Water: Water that has been filtered or purified using methods such as reverse osmosis or distillation can have a longer shelf life often up to 2 years or more, when stored correctly.

Water Rotation Pro-Tip: To ensure the freshness and quality of stored water, consider a rotation schedule that’s easy to remember. Add this task into the calendar beside something that happens yearly. May I suggest connecting it with something like your mom’s birthday or maybe Halloween. Use and replace stored water every 6 months to 1 year, even if it has been properly stored, then you can feel at peace that your water is still fresh and ready for use in the case of an emergency.

In conclusion, water is undeniably the elixir of life, even more so in times of crisis. Therefore, I’d ask everyone to be vigilant in their emergency preparedness endeavors by avoiding these five water mistakes. Neglecting water quantity, choosing improper containers, skipping water treatment, storing water in inadequate locations, and failing to rotate water supplies are errors that can add unfortunate stress to your situation when that’s the exact opposite of what you need.

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