Do I need to have an emergency supply of water?

• February 16, 2024 |

It is always advisable to have an emergency supply of water on hand.

After a disaster, clean drinking water may not be available due to contamination of a water source or damaged service lines. Water professionals will be working to restore water service, but they cannot reach everyone immediately, and it might take several days for help to reach you and your family. When it comes to water, experts recommend that each person in the family have a water supply equal to one gallon per day for 14 days, due to the higher earthquake risk in our region and the possibility that water systems and infrastructure may be severely damaged (general national recommendations are one gallon per day for 3 days). Your household needs may be even greater; be sure to think of each family member’s specific requirements (including pets).

Helpful information regarding storage of drinking water for emergency preparation is available at ready.gov/water, including container (specifically approved for potable water, BPA-free if plastic, etc.) and sanitization recommendations. For a full list of recommended supplies, go to ready.gov/kit.