Collection: Emergency Water

Water is the first thing on the official emergency checklist and the last thing most homes have sorted. This collection covers both halves of the job: storing enough for a few days, and making questionable water safe when you need more — purification tablets, portable filters, jerry cans and storage containers that don't leak or taste of plastic.

Storage: how much and in what

Plan for 2.5–3 litres per person per day, with a 72-hour minimum — so a family of four wants roughly 30–36 litres put aside. Stackable water containers and food-grade jerry cans make that a cupboard job rather than a garage project.

Purification: tablets and filters

Purification tablets are the lightest insurance there is — one tablet treats a litre against bacteria and viruses. Portable water filters like squeeze and straw filters handle larger volumes and improve taste. Both belong in every grab bag and car kit.

Emergency water FAQs

How much water should I store per person?

2.5–3 litres per person per day for drinking and basic hygiene, for at least three days. More for hot weather, illness, or pets.

How long can I store tap water?

In clean, sealed, food-grade containers kept cool and dark: rotate every 6–12 months. Commercially bottled water keeps to its printed date and beyond.

Do water purification tablets expire?

Yes — typically 3–5 years sealed. Check the date when the clocks change, along with the rest of your kit.

Tablets or a filter — which do I need?

Both do different jobs: tablets kill bacteria and viruses; most portable filters remove bacteria, cysts and grit but not viruses. Belt and braces: filter first, then a tablet.