I was saddened when I saw lines of Japanese people standing in line waiting for water---the DAY after their earthquake. Perhaps they had some, but it was buried under their homes? But we all should have enough to sustain our own families for at least 72 hours. Among other things we do, I rinse out soda bottles and refill with water. One two liter bottle will flush the toilet! (as I learned after an earthquake in 1992). By the way, I also found out the hard way that reusing gallon milk jugs does not work. Sure made a mess on my closet carpet! The news reports can scare us, but I feel better being a little prepared.