Introduction
Water is an essential commodity that we cannot live without, and its importance becomes more pronounced in emergency situations. It is crucial to stay hydrated to survive, especially when disaster strikes and you cannot access clean water. The human body is made up of 60% water, and we lose fluids through sweat, urine, and respiration. This article will guide you on how much water per person per day is required in emergency situations.
As the world grapples with climate change, natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe. For this reason, it is essential to have an emergency plan that includes access to clean water and other basic necessities such as food and shelter.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that an average adult should consume at least 2 liters of water per day to maintain good health. However, in emergency situations, the amount of water required per person can increase significantly due to the prevailing circumstances.
There are various factors to consider when determining how much water you should stockpile for emergencies. This article will provide a detailed explanation, including the advantages and disadvantages of having enough water and how to calculate the amount of water required per day per person.
How Much Water Per Person Per Day Emergency?
In emergency situations, the amount of water required per person per day may vary depending on factors such as:
1. Age and Gender
Children, pregnant women, and the elderly require more water than average adults. For instance, lactating women may require up to 3 liters of water per day. Therefore, it is essential to consider these factors when determining how much water per person per day is required in emergency situations.
2. Climate and Temperature
Extreme temperatures will result in increased water loss due to sweating, and as such, the amount of water required per person per day should increase in hot weather conditions.
3. Physical Activity Level
Engaging in physical activities such as exercise or manual labor will result in the loss of fluids through sweat, and thus the amount of water required per person per day should increase.
4. Water Quality
In emergencies, access to clean water may be limited, and as such, there may be a need to purify water before consumption, which can increase the amount of water required per person per day.
5. Medical Conditions
People with medical conditions such as diabetes or kidney problems require more water to stay hydrated, and as such, the amount of water required per person per day may increase.
6. Duration of the Emergency
The longer the emergency, the more water may be required per person per day. It is essential to have a stockpile of water that can last up to 72 hours or more, depending on the nature of the emergency.
7. Other Factors
Other factors such as altitude and humidity can also affect the amount of water required per person per day. It is essential to consider all these factors when determining the amount of water to stockpile per person per day during emergencies.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Having Enough Water
Advantages
Having enough water during emergencies has several advantages, including:
1. Hydration and Survival
Water is essential for survival, and having enough water will help you stay hydrated and increase your chances of survival in emergency situations.
2. Health and Hygiene
Access to clean water will help maintain good health and hygiene, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid, especially in crowded refugee camps or evacuation centers.
3. Basic Necessities
Water is a basic necessity and having enough water will go a long way in ensuring other basic needs such as cooking, cleaning, and sanitation are met.
Disadvantages
There are also some disadvantages of having enough water, including:
1. Storage and Transportation
Storing and transporting large amounts of water may be challenging, especially in emergency situations where resources are limited.
2. Cost
Having enough water may come at a cost, particularly when purifying water or purchasing bottled water.
3. Health Risks
Improper storage and purification of water may lead to health risks such as contamination, which can result in the spread of waterborne diseases.
Table: How Much Water Per Person Per Day Emergency?
| Age Group | Amount of Water (Liters) |
|---|---|
| Infants (0 – 6 months) | 0.7 – 0.8 |
| Infants (6 – 12 months) | 0.8 – 1 |
| Children (1 – 3 years) | 1 – 1.3 |
| Children (4 – 8 years) | 1.3 – 1.7 |
| Girls (9 – 13 years) | 1.6 – 2.1 |
| Girls (14 – 18 years) | 2.3 |
| Boys (9 – 13 years) | 1.8 – 2.4 |
| Boys (14 – 18 years) | 3.3 |
| Women (19+ years) | 2 – 2.3 |
| Men (19+ years) | 2.5 – 3 |
| Pregnant Women (19+ years) | 2.3 – 3 |
| Lactating Women (19+ years) | 3 – 3.8 |
FAQs
1. What is the minimum amount of water per person per day required during emergencies?
The minimum amount of water per person per day required during emergencies is 2 liters.
2. How can I purify water during emergencies?
You can purify water through boiling, adding chlorine, or using water purification tablets.
3. What should I do if I run out of water during emergencies?
You can collect rainwater, melt snow, or filter water from natural sources such as rivers and streams.
4. How long can I survive without water?
You can survive without water for up to 3-5 days, depending on factors such as age, health, and climate.
5. What are the signs of dehydration?
The signs of dehydration include dark urine, dry mouth, thirst, fatigue, dizziness, and confusion.
6. How can I estimate the amount of water required for my family during emergencies?
You can estimate the amount of water required by multiplying the number of people by the recommended daily water intake and multiply the result by the expected duration of the emergency.
7. Can I drink sea water during emergencies?
No, drinking seawater is not safe as it will dehydrate you further due to its high salt content.
8. How can I store water during emergencies?
You can store water in clean plastic containers or jerry cans and keep them in a cool, dry place.
9. How often should I replace my emergency water supply?
You should replace your emergency water supply every six months or when the water starts to look cloudy or smells off.
10. What should I do if I suspect my water supply is contaminated?
You should boil the water before consuming it or use water purification tablets or chlorine to purify it.
11. How can I reduce water consumption during emergencies?
You can reduce water consumption by taking short showers, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, and reusing greywater for purposes such as flushing toilets.
12. How can I stay hydrated when access to water is limited?
You can stay hydrated by eating foods that have a high water content such as fruits and vegetables, using oral rehydration solutions, or consuming liquids such as coconut water and soup.
13. What other items should I have in my emergency kit besides water?
Other items that should be in your emergency kit include food, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a radio, and extra batteries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having enough water during emergencies is essential for survival, good health, and hygiene. The amount of water required per person per day may vary depending on factors such as age, gender, physical activity, climate, and water quality. It is crucial to estimate the amount of water required and have an adequate stockpile to last up to 72 hours or more, depending on the duration of the emergency. Remember, prevention is better than cure, and having an emergency plan that includes access to clean water, food, and shelter can help mitigate the impact of disasters.
Closing Disclaimer
This article is intended to provide general information and does not substitute professional advice. Always consult a medical professional or disaster management expert before making any decisions related to your emergency plan and water consumption during emergencies.
