How many gallons of water should hospitals stock per person per day in preparation for disaster?

The recommendation for stocking 1 gallon of water per person per day in hospitals during disaster preparedness is based on the essential hydration needs of individuals. This amount is considered sufficient for basic hydration. It is important to note that while 1 gallon can provide enough drinking water, it may not account for additional needs, such as water required for food preparation, sanitation, and hygiene.

Communities and healthcare facilities establish these guidelines to ensure that there is a baseline level of water available to sustain individuals for a certain period during emergencies. Adequate hydration is crucial, especially in a hospital setting where patients may be vulnerable due to illness or injury. Although it might be beneficial to have more water available per person to cover extra needs, 1 gallon is often set as a minimum standard in many disaster preparedness plans. This figure balances resource availability with essential needs during crises.