Calcium hypochlorite is an essential item to store at home. Here’s why: Pool and Hot Tub Disinfectant: Commonly used for keeping pools and hot tubs clean. Drinking Water Purifier: Excellent for purifying drinking water (learn how at BuckhornCliffs.com). Surface Cleaner: Disinfects water storage tanks and various surfaces. Long-Lasting Bleach Alternative: While bleach lasts 6 months to a year, calcium hypochlorite stays potent for 5 years, up to 10 years in ideal conditions. Emergency Uses: Treat

Bleach vs Calcium Hypochlorite Bleach loses half its strength in 6 to 12 months. Calcium hypochlorite, which is pool shock, can last about 10 years if kept dry. You can make a bleach solution from it anytime. Use it to clean tanks or purify water. If you’re stocking up, this is the one you want on your shelf. | Rob Benson

Not this: Bleach Try this: Calcium hypochlorite: granular, stores up to 10 years Not this: Hydrogen peroxide Try this: Iodine or isopropyl alcohol: both last much longer Not this: Protein bars Try this: Pemmican, freeze-dried meals, or MREs Not this: High-acid canned foods Try this: Freeze-dried or home-canned in glass jars Not this: Canola or seed oils Try this: Beef tallow: freeze it, jar it, just don’t contaminate it | Rob Benson