September Preparedness Month (2)

This is probably the ugly stepchild of prepping, but the most essential element besides breathing: Water. This prep step will cost you about $3.00 per 24 count 500ml bottles (~2.5 gallons) plus a dollar for a gallon jug of water.

Total cost: $4.00

The typical guideline is one gallon of water per person per day. This is in strict conservation mode, and really unrealistic in my situation. I typically store about three gallons per person per day. Here's why. I have three young boys that would use about a half gallon of water just to brush their teeth. I don't want to be getting onto them for using too much water when things are already stressful enough. While I have the opportunity, I'd rather have enough water to waste. We also live in Arkansas and the summers can be brutal, and a gallon of water should probably be the minimum just for drinking to prevent dehydration.

Mid Level- $12.00-17.00

If your budget allows, I use these jugs that can be obtained at Walmart. They ran me about $12 five  years ago and are a little bit more expensive now, but a frugal investment for water storage based on cost per gallon.

I keep the water rotated twice per year, and have one per family member and yes, that includes the dog. I'll buy more containers to bring it up to two per person as money allows. This will give me a total of 84 gallons ( 2 x 6 x 7 gallons).

FYI: according to some research that I've done, the longest time between rainfall in Arkansas is 39 days. LINK  "Number 1 on the list is the period from July 27th, 1995 to September 3, 1995 (39 days)" What's the longest period  between rainfall in your state? It might be worth considering if you are planning on rain collection for part of your water supply, and your anticipated needs during that time period.

BONUS: Research your state to determine the longest period between rainfall.

Top Level - $200.00

The top tier investment for water storage, besides a hillside spring, is the Big Berkey water filter. Be sure to locate accessible water sources and remember that a gallon of water weighs eight pounds.

Comments are always welcome, and continue to visit this month for more prep steps.

One task every day, one small task....for a better prepared community - K