I
SEE THAT Californians affected by drought are now having their fresh water
rationed. They’re restricted to 50 gallons per person per day. And they’re
complaining of hardship. Poor babies.
People
who cross oceans on small sailboats mostly use less than one gallon of water a
day each, even in the tropics. In fact, if the California ration were applied,
a boat doing a non-stop 30-day transatlantic crossing with four crew would need
to carry 6,000 gallons of water weighing about 19 tons. An impossibility. Those
whining Californians don’t know how lucky they are.
For
drinking only, about half a gallon (two liters) per person per day is adequate
to maintain good health, but one whole U.S. gallon (3.78 liters) is preferable
as a minimum in hot climates, especially if it’s the only potable liquid.
You
can, and surely will, get by on less, depending on the outside weather and
temperature. But providing between a half-gallon and one gallon a day for each
person for the projected duration of an ocean passage automatically assures you
of an emergency reserve. You should figure out the number of days to allow for
by dividing the distance in miles by 100. You’ll almost certainly cover more
than 100 miles a day, but that’s the figure to aim at for planning
purposes.
Good
water will remain sweet for at least six months in tightly sealed opaque
containers stored in a cool place away from bright daylight. Don’t forget that
it’s important to divide your water supply among separate tanks or containers
in case some of it should go bad or leak away. There’s hardly anything worse
than running out of water. As any Californian can tell you.
Today’s Thought
Water, water everywhere
Atlantic and Pacific
But New York City’s got
them beat
Our aqua is terrific!
—
Edward Koch, Mayor of NYC
Tailpiece
“You’ve
got to lose weight. “I’m putting you on lettuce, carrots and green onions for a
week.”
“OK, doc. Before or after meals?”
As a California sailor, I approve this essay on water consumption!
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