Bottled Water Debate: Debunking the Myths and Embracing Emergency Preparedness

Is bottled water really just a scam? This age-old debate has sparked countless discussions and opinions online and off.

Why Bottled Water Isn't a Necessary Scam

YaY! No Bottled Water at the Office?

It's not uncommon to find employees filling up their water bottles from the tap and keeping them handy. Case in point, I fill up my bottle every morning at work and place it on my desk until I'm thirsty. This practice isn't just convenient; it's also environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

The Myth of Unsafe Tap Water

Tap Water is Safe to Drink, Anytime!

Time was, you could watch a video of bottled water companies filling their bottles using external faucets. However, this is not the norm. In Durham, England, where I reside, tap water is not only safe to drink but can be consumed at any time. I personally eschew bottled water due to the lack of transparency regarding its origin and the extended time it stays in plastic containers.

Emergency Preparedness and Filtration Solutions

California's Tragic Experience

Living in California taught me the critical importance of maintaining a minimum three-day supply of drinking water. The state is riddled with fault lines, making it vulnerable to major earthquakes and wildfires. These natural disasters can disrupt local water supplies, necessitating the need for an emergency water reserve. I've faced several such emergencies and can attest to the necessity of having a reliable water supply in place.

Living Off the Grid

Having my own well and pump in a rural village outside Durham means I am self-sufficient when it comes to water. However, my well water is high in minerals, forcing me to change my showerhead every six months. Since I can’t drink or cook with water that calcifies my showerhead, I have indeed bought into the concept of bottled water to ensure my health during emergencies.

Water Rotation and Social Responsibility

Rotating Your Bottled Water Supply

While I prefer to buy bottled water, especially for emergencies, I maintain a rotation system. I keep a bottle filled and iced in my stainless steel bottle for personal use, and I store a few more bottles in the fridge to share with my mail carrier and refuse collector during hot weather. They always appreciate the gesture!

Emergency Preparedness for All

Regardless of whether you believe bottled water is a scam or not, it's essential to prepare for emergencies. I recommend having a three-day supply of drinking water on hand for each person. This ensures you can sustain yourself until local water services are restored.

Conclusion

The bottled water debate often hinges on personal beliefs and the specific circumstances of each individual. For me, the decision to buy bottled water stems from a strong commitment to my personal health and safety during emergencies. While there may be valid concerns about the environmental impact and shelf life of bottled water, it's important to consider the practical aspects of emergency preparedness.