by J. A. Tiscareno

July 21, 2024

Floods are among the most destructive natural disasters, often leaving communities devastated and individuals stranded without access to basic necessities such as food and clean water. In such emergencies, survival hinges on preparedness and the ability to adapt quickly. One invaluable tool in such scenarios is the Sagan Life AquaBrick® Water Purification System. This portable water purifier for camping not only ensures access to safe drinking water but also aids in food storage and general survival. This blog article delves into survival hacks focusing on food, water, and making water drinkable using the AquaBrick system, supported by practical tips and references.

Understanding Flood Zones and Their Impact

Flood zones are areas designated based on their likelihood of experiencing flooding. These zones can be determined by several factors, including proximity to bodies of water, historical flood data, and topography. Living in or near a flood zone necessitates a higher level of preparedness due to the potential for sudden and severe flooding.

Floods can contaminate water supplies with hazardous chemicals, sewage, and debris, making it unsafe to drink. Furthermore, floods often destroy infrastructure, cutting off access to food and clean water. Hence, having a reliable emergency water filtration system and food storage plan is crucial for survival.

The Sagan Life AquaBrick® Water Purification System

The AquaBrick® Water Purification System is designed to provide clean, safe drinking water in emergency situations. It combines a robust, portable survival water purification system design with advanced filtration technology to remove harmful contaminants from water. Here’s how it works:

1. Multi-Stage Filtration: The AquaBrick® system uses the popular DuraFlo Water Filter. This highly effective filtration component removes up to 700 galloons from ANY non salt water source:
   • virus
   • bacteria
   • giardia and cryptosporidium
   • other water-borne toxins
   • many chemicals

   The DuraFlo™ is also a perfect compatible replacement filter for countertop gravity-fed & candlestick water filter systems including:

   • BERKEY®
   • DOULTON®
   • AQUARAIN®
2. Portable and Durable: The AquaBrick® container is made from high-density polyethylene, making it durable and easy to transport. It’s designed to hold up to 3 gallons of water and can be stacked for convenient storage.
3. Easy to Use: The system is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to set up and use. It includes a hand pump that allows for easy filtration and dispensing of water. All of the aforementioned benefits make it the best portable water purification device you can find on the market.

Survival Hacks for Food and Water

Water Collection and Storage – During a flood, access to clean water is often the first issue. Here’s how to effectively collect and store water:

1. Rainwater Harvesting: Set up tarps or plastic sheets to collect rainwater. Direct the collected water into containers like the AquaBrick™ for storage and purification. Rainwater is relatively clean and can be purified using the AquaBrick™ system.
2. Utilizing Floodwater: If rainwater is not available, floodwater can be collected. However, floodwater is highly contaminated and must be purified before use. The AquaBrick™ system can remove most contaminants, making it safe to drink.
3. Storage Tips: Store water in a cool, dark place to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. The AquaBrick™ container’s design helps in stacking and storing water efficiently.

Purifying Water – Purification is crucial to ensure that the water you consume is free from harmful pathogens and chemicals. Here’s how to use the AquaBrick™ system effectively:

1. Setup: Fill the AquaBrick® container with the collected water. Attach the filtration system as per the instructions.
2. Pumping: Use the hand pump to filter the water. The system’s multi-stage filter will remove bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants. Make sure to pump slowly to allow the water to pass through the filter thoroughly.
3. Testing: If possible, test the purified water using water testing strips to ensure it’s safe to drink. These strips can detect the presence of bacteria and chemicals.

Food Storage and Preparation – Floods can disrupt food supply chains, making it necessary to have a reliable food storage plan:

1. Non-Perishable Foods: Stock up on non-perishable items like canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and grains. These have a long shelf life and don’t require refrigeration. Use the AquaBrick® Food and Water Storage Containers. They are crushproof, airtight, and watertight.
2. Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried Foods: These are lightweight and easy to store. They require minimal water to rehydrate, which can be purified using the AquaBrick® system.
3. Cooking Methods: Invest in a portable stove , solar cooker or a volcano kettle, like the Kelly Kettle products. These can be used to prepare food even when there’s no electricity. Ensure you have a supply of fuel or adequate sunlight.

Maintaining Hygiene – Maintaining hygiene is crucial to prevent diseases, especially in flood conditions:

1. Sanitation: Use the AquaBrick™ system to purify water for washing hands, utensils, and other essentials. Ensure that you wash your hands before handling food.
2. Personal Hygiene: Keep a supply of wet wipes, hand sanitizers, and biodegradable soap. These can help maintain hygiene without using too much water.
3. Waste Disposal: Set up a designated area for waste disposal. Use sealable bags for waste to prevent contamination and attract pests.

Conclusion

Surviving in a flood zone requires a combination of preparedness, resourcefulness, and reliable tools. The Sagan Life AquaBrick® Water Purification System is best portable water purification device asset in such scenarios, providing clean, safe drinking water when it’s needed most. By following the survival hacks outlined in this article, individuals and families can increase their chances of making it through the disaster with their health and well-being intact.

References

1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). (2020). Flood Zones.
   (https://www.fema.gov/flood-zones)
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Food and Water Needs: Preparing for a Disaster or Emergency.
   (https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/foodwater/index.html)
3. Red Cross. (2018). Flood Safety.
   (https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/flood.html)
4. World Health Organization (WHO). (2017). Floods: Technical Hazard Sheet.
   (https://www.who.int/hac/techguidance/ems/floods/en/)