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How long can drinking water be stored?

Water provided to you by the City can be stored up to six months in a plastic container because it has been disinfected.  Water that has been boiled for one full minute can be stored for up to one year.  (Make sure the water has cooled before putting it in your storage container.)

If possible, you should store water in a refrigerator to help control the growth of bacteria.

How much water should be stored for emergencies?

There is no correct answer for this question, as a person's individual needs may vary, along with seasons and physical activity.  For example, a person with special needs or an illness may require more water.  Additionally, you'll need more water in hot temperatures and for strenuous activities.  As a general rule, however, you should store one gallon of water per person, per day and should plan for atleast three days.  In other words, a family of 2 would need to store 6 gallons of water, whereas a family of four would need to store 12 gallons.