It's important to have access to clean water during emergencies. Emergency water storage containers are essential for you and your family to have safe drinking water, as well as water for other uses. As a trusted emergency water storage container manufacturer, Fu Deng Plastic will explain why emergency water storage is crucial and provides some tips on choosing the best containers for your needs. Let’s explore together!

Why Choosing the Right Emergency Water Storage Container is Crucial

Finding the right water storage container for emergencies is critical. The container you choose will provide enough clean water for drinking, cooking, and staying clean during a disaster when regular water sources might not be available. While people can survive without food for weeks, they can't go without water for more than a few days.

During a natural disaster, the regular water supply can become contaminated without warning. For example, the water pipes and infrastructure can get damaged during earthquakes, leading to unreliable tap water. Relying solely on tap water during these times can be risky for your health. Having a stored water supply that is clear and uncontaminated can be critical for staying hydrated and clean during emergencies.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Emergency Water Storage Container

1. Material

   What type of container is best for storing water? Choose containers that are labeled BPA-free and manufactured for safe food storage. Avoid using disposable plastic bottles for long-term water storage, as they are not made to keep water fresh for a long time.

2. Durability

   When selecting a container for long-term storage, verify it's strong enough to handle harsh conditions. The container should resist cracking, leaking, and other types of damage.

3. Safety

   Make sure the container is safe for food or has the right certifications. This will verify that the water inside is not risky. Avoid using containers that previously held milk because they can be challenging to clean and may harbor bacteria that can contaminate the water. If you have no other option but to use a milk container, clean it thoroughly. Don't use containers that previously held bleach for storing drinking water, as they are not made from reliable plastic, and there's a risk that the water could be mistaken for drinking water and cause serious harm.

4. Sealing

   The container should have a dependable sealing mechanism to prevent contamination and keep the water clean and uncontaminated.

5. Portability

   Consider how easy it is to transport and store the container. Look for features like collapsible designs, handles, pull rings, or wheels that make moving or pulling the container more manageable. Collapsible water containers will be your perfect choice.

   

6. Capacity

   Assess your water needs carefully. Store at least 1~1.5 gallons of water per person daily for a minimum of seven days. Choose a container size that matches your household's requirements. If you are not sure about which capacity is suitable, it is advised to consult experienced manufacturers like Fu Deng Plastic.

How to Clean and Disinfect Water Storage Containers Before Use

Before using a new emergency water storage container, it’s essential to clean and disinfect it properly:

1. Wash the container with hot, soapy water, then rinse thoroughly.
2. Sanitize the container by filling it with a solution of 1 teaspoon of household liquid bleach per quart of water.
3. Let the solution sit for at least 30 minutes, then rinse the container with clean water. Remember to carefully pour fresh water into the clean container and cover it tightly with a lid.

How to disinfect water?

Here are 6 common methods:

1. Boiling: Boil water for at least one minute at sea level and for three minutes at higher altitudes. In tropical areas, boil water for 20 minutes.
2. Water Filters: Use filters with a pore size of 0.2 microns or smaller.
3. Distillation: Boil water, capture the steam, and condense it into a clean container.
4. UV Treatment: Use a UV purifier according to the manufacturer's instructions.
5. Chemical Disinfection: Use chlorine bleach or iodine tablets as directed.
6. Copper Ionization: Install a copper ionizer in your water storage system.

Storage and Usage Tips for Emergency Water Containers

1. Storage

   • You should store enough clean water for each person in the household to use 1 to 1.5 gallons per day. You might need more if you have kids, seniors, or someone who is unwell. And don't forget about your pets—they'll need about a quart to a gallon of water daily, depending on their size. It's a good idea to have at least a three-day supply of water on hand, but if you have the space, try to aim for a two-week supply.
   • Remember to keep containers in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Also, store water away from gasoline, kerosene, pesticides, or similar substances because the fumes from these materials can get through plastic.
   • After filling containers with clean water, label them with "Drinking Water" and write down the date when you stored the water.
   • Rotate your emergency water supply every six months to maintain freshness.
   • Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for storing and maintaining your emergency water supply.

2. Usage

   • Before drinking or using the stored water, disinfect it.
   • To avoid getting sick from bacteria, open a container only when you need to use it and put it in the fridge if you can. If you can't refrigerate it, keep the container in a high place where kids and pets can't reach it.
   • If possible, remember to use water from opened containers within 1 to 2 days.
   • Use clean utensils to retrieve water from the container, avoiding direct hand contact to prevent contamination.
   • You can store water in the freezer. This is helpful because the frozen water can keep your food cold for longer if the power goes out. Just use plastic containers because glass can break as the ice expands.

Seeking an Emergency Water Storage Container Manufacturer?

Taken together, a reliable emergency water storage solution is essential for health during a disaster. By considering factors such as material, durability, safety, sealing, portability, and capacity, you can choose the best container for your emergency needs. This guide also provides some tips on how to store water in long-term.

If you are looking for an emergency water storage container manufacturer, Fu Deng Plastic offers high-quality collapsible water containers. Our OEM/ODM services offer the best solutions for preparedness needs. We are a professional emergency water storage container manufacturer based in Taiwan. Please feel free to contact us for further details about our products.