In the event of a disaster such as flooding or water pipe breakage, having access to clean drinking water is invaluable.
Emergency water cans are an ideal storage solution. Not only are they durable and convenient, but their shelf life is extended as well!
Durability
In times of emergency, it’s essential to have access to clean drinking water. This is especially critical for children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with special needs.
A reliable emergency water can is durable and has a long shelf life. This depends on several factors, such as the material used and how it’s stored.
HDPE plastic is one of the toughest materials on the market for long-term storage, as it does not rust. Furthermore, it is FDA approved for potable water use and has a higher density than most other plastics.
In an emergency situation when water must be stored for extended periods, this is especially crucial as it protects the liquid from absorbing bad bacteria and other contaminants that could be toxic or even lethal.
The thick wall and tight seal of a can make it difficult for bacteria to grow. On the contrary, plastic bottles with many seams or weak points, like metal cans or aluminum pop cans, have an increased likelihood of allowing contaminants into water.
These issues can be drastically minimized with an emergency water can made of thick and durable HDPE. This type of can, commonly referred to as a mil-spec can, features an impressive wall thickness, strong seal, and secure lid.
Our experts believe this jerry can style option will last 10-20 years and is far superior.
When it comes to emergency water cans, there are a few brands available both in stores and online that you can purchase. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on both your budget and emergency needs.
Most companies don’t advertise a long shelf life, but it is possible for the water inside cans to last decades if kept bacteria-free and the packaging on the outside can withstand the rigors of time. This was true of soldered tin cans hand-dipped in enamel during World War II and some bottled waters as well.
Convenience
Maintaining an emergency water can in your home is one of the best ways to guarantee you have access to drinkable water in case of an unexpected disaster, like an earthquake or power outage. Having one on hand is also essential when dealing with plumbing problems that might go wrong during such times as these.
Water cans come in a variety of styles. Some are intended for long term storage, while others are lightweight and convenient to carry around during an emergency or add to your survival kit.
If you need a compact, convenient way to store water that can be carried on your shoulder, jerry cans are the ideal solution. They’re small enough to fit in either a backpack or glove box and lightweight and portable when empty.
Another great feature of these cans is how easy they are to sanitize before filling with water. Just wash the can with dish soap and water, then mix 5% to 9% household chlorine bleach into one quart of water. Allow this solution to sit inside the can for at least 30 seconds before pouring it into your drinking water supply.
For those needing a more compact alternative to larger cans used for long-term storage, aluminum pop top containers are available. Though more expensive than plastic cans, these are an ideal choice for those who require their water supply in a smaller, portable space.
These cans are ideal for those who prefer to store their water in an unseen location, as the jars aren’t too big and therefore easy to conceal. Plus, they’re lightweight enough that they can easily be transported if necessary.
If you want to guarantee your water’s quality for decades, Blue Can is a great option. This brand of water boasts 50 years of shelf life and is manufactured in an advanced facility that exceeds FDA regulations and bottled water industry standards.
Safety
Water is essential for survival, yet it also poses a major risk factor during an emergency. In times of chaos, clean drinking water may not be available and may need to be treated before it can be consumed safely.
If you don’t have access to bottled water, rainwater collected in clean food-grade containers or bottles that have been sanitized and stored properly before an emergency can serve as a reliable emergency source. Boiling may be the most effective way of making water safe, but it only kills most disease-causing microorganisms and does not remove other contaminants such as heavy metals or chemicals present in contaminated water can be just as hazardous.
Normal active individuals require at least 2 quarts of water daily for several days in order to drink, wash their dishes and prepare food. Children, nursing mothers and immunocompromised people may require more. It’s essential to remember that individual needs depend on age, health status, physical condition, activity level and diet as well as the climate where they reside.
In case of emergency, people should store at least one gallon of water per person for drinking and sanitation purposes for at least several days. This is especially crucial for those with compromised immune systems.
Preparing for an emergency by storing drinking water in a secure location away from any potential hazards such as flood waters and heat or chemical fumes. Common storage containers include food-grade plastic bottles and glass containers with tight-fitting lids that don’t leach hazardous chemicals into the contents of their bottles are ideal.
Some brands of canned water for emergencies come in aluminum cans, which not only are easy to store but can last up to 50 years or more. Before hermetically sealing the can, the contents are pressurized to eliminate bacteria and air before being hermetically sealed to guarantee ultrapure storage.
For extended storage, using a water filter and storage container is recommended. Filters help remove harmful substances like chlorine from the water, making it safer to drink or cook with. Some filters are designed specifically for drinking water while others are made for non-potable uses like irrigation and toilet flushing. Having access to clean drinking water also prevents dirt accumulation that could eventually clog pipes.
Storage
An emergency water can is the ideal way to store water in case of an unexpected event like flooding or a natural disaster. As a general guideline, try to stock at least a 3-day supply for your household’s safety and comfort during these trying times. This amount should be determined based on how many people reside in your household and their normal consumption patterns.
If you need more space, a large emergency water tank might be worth considering. These containers come in various sizes but most can hold at least 500 gallons of liquid. Plus, these tanks are made from FDA and NSF-approved materials – an ideal option for emergency preparedness.
The ideal storage containers should be resistant to the effects of heat, light and bacteria. They should be made from plastics that block UV rays and do not leach any chemicals into the water over time.
This type of container should also have an easy-to-access spigot for quick water dispensing. Most garden hose spigots are standard garden hose style, meaning they will connect to your standard outdoor hose easily.
Another essential feature to look for when buying a water container is a waterproof seal that prevents leaks or spills. This is especially vital if you plan on storing your liquids in a rain barrel or other container exposed to moisture.
Finally, opt for a stackable design for convenient storage. This is especially helpful if you need to store multiple water cans together in an area with limited space.
When selecting a can, ensure it is free from BPA and made from FDA/NSF compliant materials. This is essential for emergency preparedness as BPA may cause health issues in children.
To maximize the life of your water can, it should be stored in a cool, dark and temperature-controlled location. Furthermore, keeping it out of direct sunlight will cause plastic to breakdown faster than usual.
Aside from these factors, it’s also important to take into account the size of your water can. This will determine how much space it will occupy and if additional cans need to be purchased in the future.
