Alexandria, Va.-based International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) encouraged consumers to take action during National Hurricane Preparedness Week, which ran throughout the week last week, May 24-30, which coincides with the start of hurricane season, the association says.

“This week is an ideal time for people to take a moment to reassess their risks and update hurricane kits and emergency plans,” said Chris Hogan, IBWA vice president of communications, in a statement. “Continued volatility in weather across the nation only reinforces the importance of always being prepared for unexpected and dangerous weather.”

IBWA also took the opportunity to highlight the fact that in times of emergencies or natural disasters, bottled water is always there when you need it, and directed consumers to watch a video about bottled water’s role in times of emergencies.

“Being prepared in advance of a threat means stocking up on emergency supplies, such as non-perishable food, drinking water, batteries, etc., in sufficient quantities...In fact, FEMA advises that the safest, most reliable emergency drinking water is commercially purchased bottled water and recommends at least one gallon per person per day, for at least three days,” said Hogan in a statement.

When tap water is disrupted by anything from a power outage to a pipe breach during a hurricane, bottled water provides a necessary and reliable source of safe drinking water, the association says. Storing bottled water is a safe, convenient, way to ensure that you have an adequate supply of water on hand. Bottled water is there when you need it, but only because the industry is strong and viable throughout the year, it says.

The bottled water industry has always been at the forefront of relief efforts during natural disasters, and IBWA member companies have immediately responded to the need for clean water after devastating events, such as 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, it says.

“History teaches that awareness and preparation can reduce the impact of a disaster, such as a hurricane. Families, individuals, and businesses who know their vulnerability and what actions to take in advance can lessen the effects of a hurricane,” said Hogan in a statement. “IBWA understands that consumers must have access to safe, clean drinking water during emergency situations. Smart planning and preparations for one’s water needs can make a big difference in the ability to get through and recover from a natural disaster, such as a hurricane.”

In recognition of the importance of hurricane preparation, the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service (NWS) have developed a social media campaign that includes the hashtags #HurricanePrep and #ItOnlyTakesOne to promote safety messages during National Hurricane Preparedness Week. Americans are encouraged to be prepared before a hurricane threatens their community by visiting the ready.gov website. Included in the ready.gov guidance is information about what supplies to pack in a basic disaster supply kit—including the 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.

More information can be found at www.bottledwater.org. Information on the different types of severe weather such as tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flooding is available at www.weather.gov and www.ready.gov/hurricanes or the Spanish-language web site www.listo.gov.