Julie
01-06-2011, 06:47 PM
http://blog.totallyready.com/food-storage-101-lesson-five-water/01/06/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TotallyReady+%28Totally+Ready %29&utm_content=Google+Feedfetcher
Food Storage 101 Lesson Five…Water
Posted by Carolyn on Jan 6th, 2011
Before I begin my post for today I wanted to remind you I am still looking for photos of your food storage areas. Many of our friends here at Totally Ready live in small spaces or have large families and they need our help with creative solutions for food storage. Many of you live in areas with basements, lucky you. Many of us do not. How have you solved your storage area challenges? Please email photos to me at: [email protected]
I know I posted information about water storage as recently as December but this is such a crucial element in a good self reliance plan that I am re-posting one of the articles. Tuesday you heard my discussion with Jan from Healthy Harvest as we spoke about dehydrated food. As most of you know by now I am very concerned that some are purchasing cans of dehydrated and freeze dried foods and considering that their food storage. That is a huge mistake and can only lead to tears later on. Many companies are making millions of dollars selling you these foods but they are a trap. Eating dehydrated and freeze dried foods without reconstituting them can have serious health consequences. Those foods need to be reconstituted before they can be digested, your body will draw water from your cells to accomplish, this leaving you dehydrated.
I love my dehydrated refried beans and it has saved lots of room on my General Store shelves to have these on hand. They meet the criteria for stored dehydrated foods. # 1 They are used as an ingredient in meals on a regular basis. #2 I am not relying on them as my protein source. I have wet packed canned meats and beans which do not need valuable water to reconstitute during an emergency. I can tell you without hesitation that during a natural disaster such as a hurricane, tornado, flood, wild fire or earthquake, you will not have clean water.
Water is the one thing that should not be rationed during an emergency so you need to be sure you have sufficient to meet your family's needs. It is difficult to reverse the effects of dehydration. During a crisis be sure to carefully use your water but do not limit fluid consumption. We regularly pour ourselves a glass of water, drink a little and dump the rest down the sink. It is this behavior we need to be aware of and avoid. Because water is so crucial to our survival, and our mental as well as physical health, during a crisis it must take priority in a food storage plan and we must be storing canned foods to help supplement. The next time you open a can of veggies or fruit pay attention to the fluids they are packed in. Try using the syrup from your peaches to make oatmeal, yummy. Teach your family that during an emergency the liquids from canned foods are never to be discarded. Pay attention now so when that trial comes saving those liquids will be an automatic response.
You should have started a food storage/emergency preparedness binder. Copy the following post and add it to that binder for quick reference as you add water to your General Store.
Water storage is absolutely essential to a good preparedness plan. In an emergency, it may be too late to go to the tap and expect clean water to flow. One gallon per person per day is the minimum you will need to continue living the way in which you are accustomed. You will need at least two quarts for drinking and the rest for cooking, cleaning, flushing toilets, and personal hygiene. Don't forget to plan for the needs of your pets.
I recently watched a national morning television show where the topic was emergency preparations. The “expert” gave some really awful advice about water storage. Some straight talk is in order.
* Do not drink sodas or alcoholic beverages in an emergency. They will greatly increase thirst.
* Do not store water containers directly on a concrete floor.The chemicals in the concrete can leach into plastic containers and contaminate your water. Place boards or two layers of carpet on the concrete first. The best bet is to store water on shelves and not on the floor at all.
* Water should be stored in containers that are filled completely to the top.
* Water should be stored in a cool, dark location.
* Water should never be stored near chemicals, pesticides, perfumed items, or products that may emit toxic gases.If you are storing water in the garage this means you should store it away from the car and any chemicals or in a closed cabinet.
* NEVER store water in milk containers. They are too porous, difficult to sanitize, and are easily contaminated. These containers are designed to begin biodegrading as soon as they are produced and they will leak, guaranteed.Water that is sold in similar containers is meant for immediate use. Do not add these to your food storage, they will leak over time.
* Label all containers with the words “drinking water,” and with the date you stored it.If you are storing in bleach containers or other containers that are not appropriate for drinking label those Don Not Drink: for sanitation and washing only. You may know which are which but would your children if they were home alone or would a visitor or someone who had evacuated to your home.
* Stored water should be rotated every year. The best advice is to choose a date you will rotate your water every year. A good time would be a special occasion that falls during the summer months — birthday, anniversary, the 4 th of July. The old water can then be used to water outdoor gardens and trees.
* Train your family in the safe and responsible use of stored water.Teach them to practice conserving now and when an emergency presents itself they will not have to vary there habits as much.
* Do not use bottled water that has been exposed to flood waters.Everything that has been exposed to flood water MUST be disinfected before use. Canned goods may be used as the water will not leach through metal. Water, however and any chemicals can leach through plastic, thus the water in them should not be consumed. It may be used, after sterilizing the outside for flushing and cleaning after adding bleach.
Water may be stored in a variety of containers:
1. Heavy duty food grade plastic containers with a spout or a pump for dispensing water. Water is heavy and you need to consider this when choosing containers. Five gallons of water weighs 42 pounds. Containers should be manageable for one adult to lift or they should be equipped with a pump. Make sure when using plastic containers that they are approved for food use. Chemicals are available to add to storage containers preserving the water for five years. A food grade plastic container will be labeled with a PETE sign on the bottom, a triangle with a 2 in the center.
2. Plastic bottles – Water may be stored in well-rinsed bleach (hypochlorite) bottles. Do not use bottles from scented bleach. Begin by cleaning bottles with hot, soapy water. Completely clean the inside and the outside of the container, including the handle, the lid. Rinse well with plain water. Finally, rinse with clean water. Once you clean and sanitize the container, fill it with water you know is safe and screw the cap on tightly. Since some experts say storing water in bleach containers is fine and others say it is dangerous I recommend you rotate the water at least once a year and then reserve it for cleaning and flushing toilets. These are not food grade so I would use it only for non consumption.
3. Soda Bottles – Liter soda bottles with screw on lids work well for storing drinking water. Colored bottles are the best as they filter the light. Sanitize by rinsing inside and out with a solution of one-half teaspoon of household bleach per pint of water. Rinse well with plain water. Finally, rinse with clean water. Once you clean and sanitize the container, fill it with water you know is safe and screw the cap on tightly. You may want to fill containers with your own tap water. Water in different areas tastes differently and your family will be accustomed to the taste of your own tap. Before using open the container for several hours. Pour water back and forth between two pitchers to add air back in and improve the taste. If the water appears cloudy treat or use it for cleaning and bathing but not for drinking. Liter bottles are also great to have on hand to grab quickly if you need to evacuate. They can be carried easily by an adult with the use of a lanyard type bottle carrier. Clear liter bottles can be used to purify questionable water.
4. Mylar water storage bags – These are impermeable to gases and are usually sold in bulk cases for easy stacking. Individual pouches can be purchased for storing in 72 hour kits and in your car. These pouches are not rodent proof so check them often and place small pouches in a rodent proof container. These products are dated for a 5 year shelf life but have been tested to last years longer.
5. Glass jars – As you empty your canning jars sterilize them, and the screw on lids, and fill with water until you are ready to refill them with the “fruits” of your gardening efforts. They are already taking up space so put them to work! Glass jars should be stored in a dark place and preferably in the original cardboard box. Water can also be canned by processing for 20 minutes in a water bath or steam canner. This is not necessary if water is rotated on a regular basis.
6. Picnic coolers – Fill with water between uses.
7. The bathtub – If you know a storm is approaching and there is even a remote chance you may be without water, fill your bathtubs and sinks. You should experiment with this before an emergency arises. If your drain does not hold the water well you will want to purchase an inexpensive stopper at the hardware store. We have left our plants in a tub with water, while we left on vacation for a week and the water was still there when we returned home.
8. Pitchers and pots -Drag out grandma’s silver pitcher, pot, canners and anything else that can hold water. All of these items will hold water that you can safely drink. That is huge! Once items are filled cover with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent dust and ants from getting in.
9. Swimming pools – Use for cleaning and bathing only.
10. Hot water heaters – Make sure you turn off the power (or gas) before you attempt to drain. To get a free flow of water from the hot water tank, open the valve at the top of the tank as well as the faucet at the bottom of the tank. Increase the water flow by turning on any hot water faucet in the house before draining water from the hot water tank.
11. Water beds – Use water from these for cleaning and bathing only.
12. Liquids in canned fruits and vegetables are good for cooking. This is one reason I recommend you have canned foods in your General Store. Peach juice is great for cooking oatmeal. Rice and pasta cook well in the water from canned vegetables.
13. Melted snow-Be sure the snow is freshly fallen and clean. Never eat snow as it will rapidly lower your body temperature.
14. Rain water should be collected away from trees or structures which could contaminate the water. Mylar blankets; new, unused 5 gallon buckets; new unused garbage cans; pots and pans from the cupboard, all work well to collect water. Again remember plastic garbage cans are not food grade and the water should not be used for drinking or cooking
15. Fruit juices should be included in every emergency storage plan. They are not only useful for drinking but also adding flavors to foods such as oatmeal, and disguising the taste of medications.
16. A freezer is also a good place to store water for a long period. Freeze water in plastic bottles only; glass will break. Fill containers leaving two to three inches of space at the top to prevent bursting as the water expands and freezes.This practice also helps keep your foods frozen and safe to use longer, should the power fail.
Food Storage 101 Lesson Five…Water
Posted by Carolyn on Jan 6th, 2011
Before I begin my post for today I wanted to remind you I am still looking for photos of your food storage areas. Many of our friends here at Totally Ready live in small spaces or have large families and they need our help with creative solutions for food storage. Many of you live in areas with basements, lucky you. Many of us do not. How have you solved your storage area challenges? Please email photos to me at: [email protected]
I know I posted information about water storage as recently as December but this is such a crucial element in a good self reliance plan that I am re-posting one of the articles. Tuesday you heard my discussion with Jan from Healthy Harvest as we spoke about dehydrated food. As most of you know by now I am very concerned that some are purchasing cans of dehydrated and freeze dried foods and considering that their food storage. That is a huge mistake and can only lead to tears later on. Many companies are making millions of dollars selling you these foods but they are a trap. Eating dehydrated and freeze dried foods without reconstituting them can have serious health consequences. Those foods need to be reconstituted before they can be digested, your body will draw water from your cells to accomplish, this leaving you dehydrated.
I love my dehydrated refried beans and it has saved lots of room on my General Store shelves to have these on hand. They meet the criteria for stored dehydrated foods. # 1 They are used as an ingredient in meals on a regular basis. #2 I am not relying on them as my protein source. I have wet packed canned meats and beans which do not need valuable water to reconstitute during an emergency. I can tell you without hesitation that during a natural disaster such as a hurricane, tornado, flood, wild fire or earthquake, you will not have clean water.
Water is the one thing that should not be rationed during an emergency so you need to be sure you have sufficient to meet your family's needs. It is difficult to reverse the effects of dehydration. During a crisis be sure to carefully use your water but do not limit fluid consumption. We regularly pour ourselves a glass of water, drink a little and dump the rest down the sink. It is this behavior we need to be aware of and avoid. Because water is so crucial to our survival, and our mental as well as physical health, during a crisis it must take priority in a food storage plan and we must be storing canned foods to help supplement. The next time you open a can of veggies or fruit pay attention to the fluids they are packed in. Try using the syrup from your peaches to make oatmeal, yummy. Teach your family that during an emergency the liquids from canned foods are never to be discarded. Pay attention now so when that trial comes saving those liquids will be an automatic response.
You should have started a food storage/emergency preparedness binder. Copy the following post and add it to that binder for quick reference as you add water to your General Store.
Water storage is absolutely essential to a good preparedness plan. In an emergency, it may be too late to go to the tap and expect clean water to flow. One gallon per person per day is the minimum you will need to continue living the way in which you are accustomed. You will need at least two quarts for drinking and the rest for cooking, cleaning, flushing toilets, and personal hygiene. Don't forget to plan for the needs of your pets.
I recently watched a national morning television show where the topic was emergency preparations. The “expert” gave some really awful advice about water storage. Some straight talk is in order.
* Do not drink sodas or alcoholic beverages in an emergency. They will greatly increase thirst.
* Do not store water containers directly on a concrete floor.The chemicals in the concrete can leach into plastic containers and contaminate your water. Place boards or two layers of carpet on the concrete first. The best bet is to store water on shelves and not on the floor at all.
* Water should be stored in containers that are filled completely to the top.
* Water should be stored in a cool, dark location.
* Water should never be stored near chemicals, pesticides, perfumed items, or products that may emit toxic gases.If you are storing water in the garage this means you should store it away from the car and any chemicals or in a closed cabinet.
* NEVER store water in milk containers. They are too porous, difficult to sanitize, and are easily contaminated. These containers are designed to begin biodegrading as soon as they are produced and they will leak, guaranteed.Water that is sold in similar containers is meant for immediate use. Do not add these to your food storage, they will leak over time.
* Label all containers with the words “drinking water,” and with the date you stored it.If you are storing in bleach containers or other containers that are not appropriate for drinking label those Don Not Drink: for sanitation and washing only. You may know which are which but would your children if they were home alone or would a visitor or someone who had evacuated to your home.
* Stored water should be rotated every year. The best advice is to choose a date you will rotate your water every year. A good time would be a special occasion that falls during the summer months — birthday, anniversary, the 4 th of July. The old water can then be used to water outdoor gardens and trees.
* Train your family in the safe and responsible use of stored water.Teach them to practice conserving now and when an emergency presents itself they will not have to vary there habits as much.
* Do not use bottled water that has been exposed to flood waters.Everything that has been exposed to flood water MUST be disinfected before use. Canned goods may be used as the water will not leach through metal. Water, however and any chemicals can leach through plastic, thus the water in them should not be consumed. It may be used, after sterilizing the outside for flushing and cleaning after adding bleach.
Water may be stored in a variety of containers:
1. Heavy duty food grade plastic containers with a spout or a pump for dispensing water. Water is heavy and you need to consider this when choosing containers. Five gallons of water weighs 42 pounds. Containers should be manageable for one adult to lift or they should be equipped with a pump. Make sure when using plastic containers that they are approved for food use. Chemicals are available to add to storage containers preserving the water for five years. A food grade plastic container will be labeled with a PETE sign on the bottom, a triangle with a 2 in the center.
2. Plastic bottles – Water may be stored in well-rinsed bleach (hypochlorite) bottles. Do not use bottles from scented bleach. Begin by cleaning bottles with hot, soapy water. Completely clean the inside and the outside of the container, including the handle, the lid. Rinse well with plain water. Finally, rinse with clean water. Once you clean and sanitize the container, fill it with water you know is safe and screw the cap on tightly. Since some experts say storing water in bleach containers is fine and others say it is dangerous I recommend you rotate the water at least once a year and then reserve it for cleaning and flushing toilets. These are not food grade so I would use it only for non consumption.
3. Soda Bottles – Liter soda bottles with screw on lids work well for storing drinking water. Colored bottles are the best as they filter the light. Sanitize by rinsing inside and out with a solution of one-half teaspoon of household bleach per pint of water. Rinse well with plain water. Finally, rinse with clean water. Once you clean and sanitize the container, fill it with water you know is safe and screw the cap on tightly. You may want to fill containers with your own tap water. Water in different areas tastes differently and your family will be accustomed to the taste of your own tap. Before using open the container for several hours. Pour water back and forth between two pitchers to add air back in and improve the taste. If the water appears cloudy treat or use it for cleaning and bathing but not for drinking. Liter bottles are also great to have on hand to grab quickly if you need to evacuate. They can be carried easily by an adult with the use of a lanyard type bottle carrier. Clear liter bottles can be used to purify questionable water.
4. Mylar water storage bags – These are impermeable to gases and are usually sold in bulk cases for easy stacking. Individual pouches can be purchased for storing in 72 hour kits and in your car. These pouches are not rodent proof so check them often and place small pouches in a rodent proof container. These products are dated for a 5 year shelf life but have been tested to last years longer.
5. Glass jars – As you empty your canning jars sterilize them, and the screw on lids, and fill with water until you are ready to refill them with the “fruits” of your gardening efforts. They are already taking up space so put them to work! Glass jars should be stored in a dark place and preferably in the original cardboard box. Water can also be canned by processing for 20 minutes in a water bath or steam canner. This is not necessary if water is rotated on a regular basis.
6. Picnic coolers – Fill with water between uses.
7. The bathtub – If you know a storm is approaching and there is even a remote chance you may be without water, fill your bathtubs and sinks. You should experiment with this before an emergency arises. If your drain does not hold the water well you will want to purchase an inexpensive stopper at the hardware store. We have left our plants in a tub with water, while we left on vacation for a week and the water was still there when we returned home.
8. Pitchers and pots -Drag out grandma’s silver pitcher, pot, canners and anything else that can hold water. All of these items will hold water that you can safely drink. That is huge! Once items are filled cover with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent dust and ants from getting in.
9. Swimming pools – Use for cleaning and bathing only.
10. Hot water heaters – Make sure you turn off the power (or gas) before you attempt to drain. To get a free flow of water from the hot water tank, open the valve at the top of the tank as well as the faucet at the bottom of the tank. Increase the water flow by turning on any hot water faucet in the house before draining water from the hot water tank.
11. Water beds – Use water from these for cleaning and bathing only.
12. Liquids in canned fruits and vegetables are good for cooking. This is one reason I recommend you have canned foods in your General Store. Peach juice is great for cooking oatmeal. Rice and pasta cook well in the water from canned vegetables.
13. Melted snow-Be sure the snow is freshly fallen and clean. Never eat snow as it will rapidly lower your body temperature.
14. Rain water should be collected away from trees or structures which could contaminate the water. Mylar blankets; new, unused 5 gallon buckets; new unused garbage cans; pots and pans from the cupboard, all work well to collect water. Again remember plastic garbage cans are not food grade and the water should not be used for drinking or cooking
15. Fruit juices should be included in every emergency storage plan. They are not only useful for drinking but also adding flavors to foods such as oatmeal, and disguising the taste of medications.
16. A freezer is also a good place to store water for a long period. Freeze water in plastic bottles only; glass will break. Fill containers leaving two to three inches of space at the top to prevent bursting as the water expands and freezes.This practice also helps keep your foods frozen and safe to use longer, should the power fail.