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The 72-Hour Emergency Kit: What You Need to Survive

Water: The Non-Negotiable Foundation

The single most critical item in any emergency kit is water. FEMA's official guidance specifies one gallon of water per person per day, for a minimum of three days (three gallons per person for a 72-hour kit), though FEMA recommends two weeks of supply when possible. A family of four needs a minimum of 12 gallons for 72 hours. Individual consumption needs increase in hot weather, during physical exertion, for pregnant women, and for those with medical conditions requiring hydration — plan 1.5–2 gallons per person per day in these cases. Water storage options: commercially sealed water pouches (Blue Can has a 50-year shelf life), standard bottled water (replace every 6–12 months), or 5-gallon HDPE food-grade water containers. Store in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight and petroleum products, which can leach through plastic. Water purification as backup: standard unscented liquid chlorine bleach (8 drops per gallon for clear water, 16 drops for cloudy water — CDC guidance). Do not store water in milk jugs — they degrade and harbor bacteria. Mark all containers with the fill date.

The 72-Hour Emergency Kit: What You Need to Survive

Water: The Non-Negotiable Foundation

The single most critical item in any emergency kit is water. FEMA's official guidance specifies one gallon of water per person per day, for a minimum of three days (three gallons per person for a 72-hour kit), though FEMA recommends two weeks of supply when possible. A family of four needs a minimum of 12 gallons for 72 hours. Individual consumption needs increase in hot weather, during physical exertion, for pregnant women, and for those with medical conditions requiring hydration — plan 1.5–2 gallons per person per day in these cases. Water storage options: commercially sealed water pouches (Blue Can has a 50-year shelf life), standard bottled water (replace every 6–12 months), or 5-gallon HDPE food-grade water containers. Store in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight and petroleum products, which can leach through plastic. Water purification as backup: standard unscented liquid chlorine bleach (8 drops per gallon for clear water, 16 drops for cloudy water — CDC guidance). Do not store water in milk jugs — they degrade and harbor bacteria. Mark all containers with the fill date.