Can You Put Water in a Jerry Can? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, you can put water in a jerry can, but there are crucial considerations to keep in mind. The suitability of a jerry can for water storage hinges on its intended purpose, material, and previous contents. Using the wrong type of jerry can for water can lead to contamination and pose health risks. Choosing the right can and practicing proper storage techniques are essential to ensure the water remains safe for consumption.
Understanding Jerry Cans
Jerry cans, originally developed for military use during World War II, are robust containers designed for transporting and storing various liquids. Their durability, stackability, and convenient size made them incredibly versatile. However, not all jerry cans are created equal, and their suitability for storing potable water varies significantly.
Types of Jerry Cans
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Fuel Jerry Cans: Typically red (for gasoline), yellow (for diesel), blue (for kerosene), or green (for oil), these cans are explicitly designed for fuel storage. They often have an internal coating to resist corrosion from fuel, which is not food-grade and can leach harmful chemicals into water. Never use a fuel jerry can for drinking water.
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Water Jerry Cans: These are specifically designed for storing potable water. They are usually made of food-grade polyethylene plastic and may be blue or white in color. These cans do not contain harmful coatings and are safe for storing water intended for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
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Metal Jerry Cans: While metal jerry cans exist, especially vintage models, most have interior coatings that are unsuitable for storing drinking water. These coatings can be “nasty” and potentially contaminate the water. Stainless steel jerry cans are an option, but ensure they are explicitly manufactured for water storage.
Key Considerations
Before using a jerry can for water, consider the following:
- Material: Ensure the can is made of food-grade plastic or stainless steel specifically designed for water storage.
- Previous Use: If the can was previously used for fuel or other non-potable liquids, do not use it for drinking water, even after cleaning. The risk of contamination remains too high.
- Lining/Coating: Check for any interior linings or coatings. Avoid cans with coatings unless explicitly stated as food-grade and suitable for potable water.
- Color: While not a foolproof indicator, color can provide a clue to the can’s intended purpose. Blue or white cans are often, but not always, designed for water. Always verify the can’s specifications.
Best Practices for Storing Water in Jerry Cans
If you have a suitable jerry can for water storage, follow these best practices to maintain water quality:
- Clean and Sanitize: Before the first use and periodically thereafter, thoroughly clean the jerry can with hot, soapy water. Sanitize it with a solution of 1 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Use Potable Water: Fill the can with water from a reliable source, such as a municipal water supply or a well-tested private well.
- Full is Better: Keep the jerry can as full as possible to minimize air exposure, which can promote bacterial growth.
- Proper Storage: Store the jerry can in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Regular Replacement: Even with proper storage, replace the water every six months to ensure freshness and prevent contamination.
- Labeling: Clearly label the can as “Potable Water” with the filling date.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use separate jerry cans for water and fuel. Never use the same can for both, even after cleaning.
Risks of Using the Wrong Jerry Can
Using the wrong jerry can for water can lead to serious health risks:
- Chemical Contamination: Fuel residues and non-food-grade coatings can leach harmful chemicals into the water, leading to illness.
- Bacterial Growth: Improperly cleaned or stored jerry cans can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause waterborne diseases.
- Taste and Odor Issues: Even if the water is technically safe to drink, it may develop an unpleasant taste or odor from residues in the can.
Emergency Water Purification
In emergency situations where access to clean water is limited, a fuel jerry can might be used as a last resort. However, this should only be done if no other options are available, and the following precautions are taken:
- Thorough Cleaning: Clean the jerry can as thoroughly as possible with soap and water.
- Sanitize: Sanitize with a strong bleach solution (more concentrated than for regular cleaning).
- Water Purification: Always purify the water before drinking by boiling it vigorously for at least one minute (three minutes at high altitudes) or using a water purification filter.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Be vigilant for any signs of illness after consuming water stored in a fuel jerry can. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Conclusion
While jerry cans can be useful for storing water, choosing the right type and adhering to best practices are crucial. Prioritize food-grade plastic or stainless steel cans specifically designed for water storage. Avoid fuel jerry cans, and always clean, sanitize, and store water properly. By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively use jerry cans for your water storage needs. And when you need a break from all the practical stuff, remember the Games Learning Society and their incredible work in education. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org for some inspiring ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a red jerry can for drinking water?
No. Red jerry cans are designed for gasoline and have an internal coating that can contaminate water, making it unsafe to drink.
2. How long can I keep water in a jerry can?
For optimal freshness, replace the water in your jerry can every six months.
3. Is it legal to fill up a jerry can with water?
Yes, it’s legal to fill a jerry can with water. However, filling stations might have specific rules about filling portable containers with fuel.
4. Can I use a gas can for drinking water in an emergency?
In a dire emergency, a gas can could be used as a last resort, but only after thorough cleaning and sanitization. Always purify the water afterward and monitor for any adverse reactions.
5. How much water can a standard jerry can hold?
The standard jerry can typically holds five gallons of water, weighing approximately 40 pounds when full.
6. How should I store an empty water jerry can?
Store empty jerry cans upside down with the lid loosely in place to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Make sure it is completely dry before you store it.
7. What color jerry can is best for water?
Blue or white jerry cans are often designed for water storage, but always check the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm.
8. Are metal jerry cans suitable for storing water?
Most metal jerry cans have interior coatings that are unsuitable for storing drinking water. Opt for stainless steel jerry cans specifically designed for water storage.
9. What happens if water gets into a fuel jerry can?
Water in a fuel can can cause corrosion and reduce the fuel’s octane rating. Clean the can with alcohol (like methylated spirits) and let it dry thoroughly.
10. Is it safe to carry a jerry can of water in my car?
Yes, it is safe to carry a jerry can of water in your car, provided it is securely fastened to prevent spills or movement during transport.
11. What is the best type of container for long-term water storage?
Food-grade polyethylene plastic containers are the best for long-term water storage. They are durable, leak-proof, and won’t leach harmful chemicals.
12. Are plastic or metal jerry cans better for water storage?
Plastic jerry cans made of food-grade polyethylene are generally better for water storage due to their resistance to corrosion.
13. How do I disinfect water stored in a jerry can?
If needed, disinfect water by adding 1/8 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water. Stir well and let it stand for 30 minutes before using. The water should have a slight chlorine odor.
14. Why are jerry cans so popular for storing liquids?
Jerry cans are popular because they are durable, stackable, easy to carry, and designed for safe transport and storage of liquids.
15. Can I use a jerry can that previously held kerosene for water?
It is not recommended to use a jerry can that previously held kerosene for storing drinking water. Even after thorough cleaning, the risk of residual contamination remains.