Water Base
Plan stored water, safe treatment and collection for household disruption.
Prepared Base checklist
Your checklist
Check what you already have and choose what to work on next.
Stored water supplies0 / 7
Plan around 3 litres per person per day for drinking as a starting minimum; allow more for heat and individual needs.
View Water Ready KitAllow extra for cooking and basic hygiene; 10 litres per person per day in total is a more comfortable planning level.
Choose sealed containers intended for drinking water; never reuse chemical containers.
Useful for collecting water from a distribution point.
Use a compatible tap to avoid lifting heavy containers.
Mark contents and filling or expiry dates.
Check seals and stock dates; follow supplier instructions for replacement.
Access, cleaning and filtration0 / 8
Record emergency contacts and local collection arrangements.
Keep an accessible bottle for each person.
Clean drinking-water containers following their instructions.
Choose a filter rated for the contaminants expected; many do not remove viruses or chemicals. Only needed where relevant: alternative water source planned.
An alternative to a portable filter for treating batches; check its specifications. Only needed where relevant: alternative water source planned.
Follow the product dose and contact time; do not assume they remove chemical contamination. Only needed where relevant: alternative water source planned.
Keep compatible spares and check filter life. Only needed where relevant: filter owners.
Use the maker's cleaning method and accessories. Only needed where relevant: filter owners.
Safe treatment and collection0 / 6
Have a safe means of boiling when advised; boiling does not remove chemical contamination.
Follow water supplier advice; do not treat floodwater as a drinking-water source.
Use collected rainwater for suitable non-drinking tasks unless appropriately treated and tested. Only needed where relevant: outdoor space available.
Keep drinking-water equipment separate from non-drinking collection equipment.
Clearly distinguish non-drinking water from drinking water.
Plan how to carry full containers without injury; smaller containers may be easier.
Keep your household plan current0 / 6
Include regular visitors and pets when you plan your supplies.
Find a cool space away from direct sunlight and household chemicals.
Think through cooking, washing and any other water needs in your household.
Follow storage instructions and note when each container needs checking.
Show the household where the reserve is and how to access it.
Revisit your plan when your household or storage space changes.
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