Preparedness
How Much Gasoline Should You Store for Emergencies?
In the event of an emergency, one of the first resources to disappear will likely be gasoline. The question is: how much emergency gasoline should you actually have on hand?
To answer this, start by evaluating your current gasoline usage. Americans consume a staggering amount of gas—over 374 million gallons annually, which equates to roughly 1.5 gallons per adult each day.
In scenarios where the power fails, gas pumps become inoperative, leading to long lines and widespread shortages. The key to avoiding such discomfort is to plan ahead by determining your gasoline needs and storing it safely for future use.
However, storing significant quantities of gasoline presents challenges. It’s wise to ensure that gasoline is only a part of your overall fuel strategy. Consider diversifying your fuel sources by incorporating propane, solar, and even wood-based options.
“Gas is highly flammable so make sure you store it safely.” Avoid storing gasoline inside your home, in direct sunlight, or near any heat sources. Use approved containers and adhere to safety guidelines to minimize fire risks. Also, be aware that local regulations may limit the amount of gasoline you can legally store.
When it comes to calculating your gasoline needs in a survival situation, some basic math can help. Assume a vehicle with a fuel economy of 15 miles per gallon and a 15-gallon tank capacity. This setup provides a range of 225 miles per full tank.
In a survival scenario, ensure your bug-out location is within a single tank’s range, as refueling might be challenging or impossible. For instance, if your destination is 200 miles away, you’ll need 30 gallons for a round trip of 400 miles, with some extra for contingencies. If you start with a full tank, you’d only need an additional 15 gallons stored.
Most people rely on inverter generators in emergency scenarios due to their mobility and quieter operation. While generator efficiency varies, they typically have a one-gallon capacity and can run between three to eight hours on that gallon. If you run your generator four to six hours daily, you might use 1.25 gallons per day, totaling 37.5 gallons for a month.
Combining these needs, your total gasoline requirement could reach 67.5 gallons. This figure may seem daunting, but it’s crucial to assess your specific fuel needs. If you don’t need to drive to a bug-out location or if the weather is mild, you can significantly reduce your fuel consumption.
Consider this information not as a rigid guideline but as a catalyst for reevaluating your gasoline needs and exploring alternative fuel sources.
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