Although tornado season ended in June portions of our state continued to experience tornado activity, like the EF0 tornado that touched down in Oakland County in early October.

If severe weather like a tornado or straight-line winds strikes your area it may be necessary to shelter-in-place, and if the weather has a disastrous impact, you may have to shelter for an extended period.

Here are four tips on how to prepare and manage your water supply to ensure the well-being of you and your family, based on our research on Ready.gov—a government campaign designed to promote disaster preparedness.

Managing Water

Following a disaster your water source could be cut off or compromised, and clean drinking water may not be readily accessible.

To be prepared ahead of a disaster, it’s best to store at least one gallon of water for each person in your family, per day, for several days—for drinking and sanitary needs. If your stored water remains unused as it nears expiration, swap it out with a new supply and drink the older one.

Be aware that children, nursing mothers, and the sick may require more water. Also, in very hot temperatures your water needs can double.

If You’re Running Short on Water During a Disaster… 

Don’t ration your water supply unless directed by authorities. Drink what you need today, and try to find more for tomorrow. You can help lessen the amount of water you need by reducing your level of activity.

Don’t consume carbonated, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks in place of water. Caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate you and increase your need for water.

Drink water that you know isn’t contaminated first. But if you must drink “suspicious water”—water that’s cloudy from the faucet, or water from ponds and streams—consume it only after it’s treated. If treatment isn’t an option avoid drinking it for as long as possible—but don’t allow yourself to become dehydrated.

Exact Recon specializes in wind and storm damage restoration. Our experts are ready to help you rebound from disaster.