Plan to have three gallons of water per person per day. Some relief agencies are suggesting that families plan to be without water and electrical services for two weeks instead of three to five days, so you may want to factor accordingly to be on the safe side. Also remember that you will need drinking water for pets.

Stock the refrigerator with bottled water. For a cheaper option, reuse two-liter plastic bottles rather than buying bottled water. The American Red Cross also suggests buying food-grade plastic buckets or drums. Seal the water containers tightly and label and date them. Store them in a cool, dark place and they will be useable for up to six months.

Fill sinks and bathtubs half a day before the hurricane. Test the drains to make sure they are watertight. If you have a leak, use plastic wrap to line the sink or tub.

Also fill the washing machine, which can provide gallons of water suitable for cleaning dishes or washing hands.

To use the water in your hot-water tank, be sure the electricity or gas is off, and open the drain at the bottom of the tank. Start the water flowing by turning off the water intake valve and turning on a hot-water faucet. If you empty the tank, do not turn on the gas or electricity to the unit.

Purification
Boiling is the safest method for treating water.

Bring water to a rolling boil for three to five minutes, keeping in mind that some water will evaporate.

Boiled water tastes better if you put oxygen back into it by pouring the water back and forth between two clean containers. This also will improve the taste of stored water.

Water purification supplies
Clorox or other household bleach that is fragrance-free or iodine tablets, which are available at some sporting goods stores.