Water Storage Checklist

Use this checklist to build and maintain your household water supply. Start with the minimum and expand over time.

Check boxes as you complete items. Print this page for an offline copy.

How Much to Store

1 gallon per person per day minimum

1.5 gallons per person per day for a comfortable margin

Additional water planned for pets (check breed/size-specific needs)

Extended supply target set: ___ gallons total

Storage Containers

Food-grade water storage containers only (HDPE marked with #2)

No reused milk jugs (harbor bacteria)

No non-food-grade containers

Containers stored in cool, dark location

Away from chemicals, gasoline, pesticides

5-gallon stackable containers purchasedOptional

55-gallon barrel for extended supplyOptional

Filling and Treating

Containers thoroughly cleaned before filling

Tap water used (already treated)

Containers sealed tightly after filling

Date of fill written on each container

Rotation schedule set (every 6–12 months)

Few drops of unscented household bleach added per gallon (verify current CDC ratio)Optional

Filtration and Purification

Portable water filter (Sawyer, LifeStraw, or similar) in kit

Water purification tablets in kit (iodine or chlorine dioxide)

Know how to use both methods

Backup purification method identified

Gravity filter for home use (Berkey or similar)Optional

UV purifier (SteriPen)Optional

Knowledge & Planning

Know location of boil water notice updates (local utility website)

Know how to access water from water heater (emergency use)

Know natural water sources near home and how to treat them

Local emergency water distribution points identified

Note: This checklist is a starting point. Your household's specific needs — medical requirements, pets, climate, family size — may require additions. For medical and safety guidance, consult healthcare providers and local emergency management agencies.

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72-Hour Kit Checklist
Family Emergency Plan
Water Storage Checklist
Power Outage Checklist
Evacuation Checklist
First Aid Kit Checklist
Vehicle Emergency Kit
Emergency Documents
Pet Emergency Checklist
Winter Outage Checklist
Home Readiness Audit
Shelter in Place Checklist