What is the best way to handle water shortages?
That’s not a ground breaking question, but when the faucet fails, it’s one you’ll be glad you asked yourself.
Water, water, everywhere and not a drop to drink. Thinking of that statement, most of us conjure up an image of floating hopelessly in a lost ocean raft, or the perils that early explores faced as they sailed for parts unknown.
Fortunately, the likelihood any of us would face such a situation is comparably to lottery odds. Unfortunately, the so-called fresh water found flowing around us is often no more potable than salty brine, though for different reasons, and it can be every bit as dangerous. So what will you do when the tap stops flowing?
Consider this simple challenge from ‘s Handbook to Practical Disaster Preparedness For The Family. Bradley, A. T. (2012). Handbook to practical disaster preparedness for the family. Lexington, KY: Arthur T. Bradley. 3-22
Heavy rains have flooded the nearby water treatment facility, introducing two dangerous pathogens (Giardia and Shigella) into the water supply. Local authorities have issued an order to use bottled water and boil tap water. The rains are expected to continue for the next five days. How you provide clean drinking water for your family? Do you understand the risks these pathogens pose?
Note right away, this challenge is more or less a best case scenario. The water may be contaminated, but it is still readily available. We can also assume utilities are still functioning. Boil the water you need and call it a day.
But what if we add an extra hiccup? What if the local river floods? Your home is not in the flooded area, but your power and access to purchase bottled water is cut off. Would you still know what to do?
The real answer is there is no perfect answer. That said, there are many solutions available with varying degrees on convenience, expense, and robustness. It may be a worn mantra, but again – there is no shortcut to educating yourself. Study the various purifying techniques and products available, then choose the best combination to suit your needs.
Storage – Stockpiling water has the advantage of instant availability. Unless the stockpiles get thrown into the next county, you’re ready for whatever comes. The downside is that keeping enough water on hand for any reasonable use is somewhat impractical. Additionally, water DOES have a shelf life. Bradley, A. T. (2012). Handbook to practical disaster preparedness for the family. Lexington, KY: Arthur T. Bradley. 3-23
Unless treated with a water preserver, it must be poured out and refilled about every six months.
Regardless of your approach, one thing holds true. If disaster is imminent, store as much water as possible. If you don’t have enough water containers, fill bathtubs, buckets, pots, barrels, and anything else you have available. Remember water is not only used for drinking and cooking, but also hygiene and sanitation.