When water stops being automatic
A storm, frozen pipe, municipal interruption, or stopped well pump can make a familiar kitchen suddenly awkward. You still need water to drink, cook, and clean. Plan stored water first, then suitable containers and treatment for specific needs. Put the instructions where the rest of the household can find them.
Store what you will actually rotate
CDC recommends at least one gallon per person per day for three days, and a two-week supply where possible. Add water for pets and additional needs in hot weather or illness. Use food-grade containers that household members can lift, date them, and keep them away from heat, sunlight, and chemicals. Replace water you fill yourself every six months; follow the expiration date on commercially bottled water.
Filter for a specific source
No filter solves every water problem. Sediment, microbes, agricultural runoff, salt, and industrial contaminants require different treatment. Read the manufacturer’s testing data, understand which organisms or compounds the system addresses, and keep replacement elements on hand.
Keep treatment and storage separate
Follow the local water advisory and use a known safe supply. Boiling or disinfection can address some microbial hazards, but does not make water contaminated with fuel, toxic chemicals, or radioactive material safe. Check the exact filter specification; do not assume a household gravity filter handles an emergency source. Keep untreated and treated containers separate.
Make the plan easy to use
Include children, older adults, pets, medication, hygiene, and cooking in the plan. Write down where the shutoff is, what happens to the well or building system without power, and where additional safe water can be obtained. Walk someone else through it. A plan that depends on one person remembering which cupboard is a plan worth revising.
Keep the instructions with the water
Use the current guidance below when putting supplies together. Keep a copy of the instructions you need with the containers.