How to choose an emergency water container

What to look for

Tick each point the product you are considering meets.

• Choose food-grade containers approved for drinking water where possible.^[1]
• If unsure whether a container is food-grade, ask the manufacturer before using it.^[1]
• Pick a container with a tight-closing lid.^[1]
• Choose durable, unbreakable material rather than glass.^[1]
• Prefer a narrow neck or opening, which helps keep water clean.^[1]
• Plan enough capacity for at least 2.5 to 3 litres of drinking water per person per day: this is the bare survival minimum.^[2]
• Store more in hot weather, because people need more water in the heat.^[1]
• For more comfort, aim for about 10 litres per person per day in total, to also cover basic cooking and hygiene, plus extra for babies, medical needs and pets.^[2]
• Have containers big enough to hold at least a three-day supply for your household.^[3]

Avoid

• Never reuse containers that held toxic chemicals such as bleach or pesticides.^[1]
• Avoid glass containers, which can break.^[1]

After you buy

• Before filling, wash with soap, rinse, then sanitise with a diluted unscented bleach solution and let air-dry.^[1]
• Label each container 'drinking water' with the date you filled it.^[1]
• Store in a cool place out of direct sunlight, away from fuel, pesticides and other chemicals.^[1]
• Keep containers tightly closed and replace the stored water every six months.^[1]