Emergency water storage is the practice of keeping treated, sealed drinking water on hand before a disaster disrupts municipal supply. FEMA's 1 gallon per person per day is a survival minimum; 2 gallons per person per day is more realistic once you account for cooking, hygiene, and pets.
Written by Mike, a union power lineman with 22 years on the job and mutual aid plus storm restoration deployments after Sandy, California wildfires, Texas winter storms, and Gulf Coast hurricanes.
FEMA recommends storing at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. — Ready.gov — Water
FEMA's floor is 1 gallon per person per day. I plan 2 gallons when I can for drinking, cooking, and a little hygiene. Four people for 14 days at 2 gallons is 112 gallons. Two 55-gallon drums hold 110. Cover the last 2 gallons with a jug, or a third drum.
Commercially sealed water has a shelf life of about 2 years but remains safe longer if stored properly. Tap water in clean, sealed containers stays safe for 6–12 months in a cool, dark location. Rotate every 6–12 months.
Yes — rinsed 2-liter soda bottles are one of the best DIY water storage options. They're food-grade PET plastic and seal well. Avoid milk jugs — protein residue promotes bacterial growth. Label with the fill date and store away from light and heat.
At 2 gallons per person per day: one person needs 28 gallons for 2 weeks. A family of 4 needs 112 gallons. Two 55-gallon drums hold 110 gallons, 2 gallons short. Add a 5-gallon jug or a third drum. A filter covers resupply. It does not add 2 gallons in the garage.