Water needs vary within the population. When stockpiling water and sanitation items as a part of emergency preparedness planning at the community level take into consideration the water needs for drinking, cooking and bathing of persons with disabilities, children, nursing mothers, and persons who are ill, who will require more drinking water.

• Do not simply divide the quantity of delivered water by the population served. Use household surveys, observation and focus group discussions to collect data on water use and consumption. Consult with persons with a variety of backgrounds on their needs and requirements for water consumption and water access.
• The minimum water supply per person/day should be increased for pregnant women, chronically ill persons and persons with disabilities.
• Consider smaller water containers that are easier to carry, like plastic buckets or jars of the right size for carrying on a wheelchair and for storing water.
• Stock some portable partitions, shower chairs and toilet chairs to allow accessibility and privacy for personal care in shelter and other public places.
• Ensure that water supplies are accessible and can be reached by wheelchair users and other persons with mobility limitations. Water taps should be installed low enough so that they can be reached from a wheelchair.
• Stockpile portable ramps and hard road surfaces to enable persons with disabilities access water and sanitation independently and easily.
• In case of a tube well, make sure the handle is long enough to press from a wheelchair and it requires a minimum of resistance to press it. Ensure the surrounding environment is barrier free (e.g., there are no steps around).