Jerry Can: An Essential Container for Emergency Preparedness
When you think of a jerry can, what do you think of? Probably the military, right? And you wouldn’t be wrong, as they use jerry cans all the time. But what about for civilian use? Jerry cans are incredibly helpful and something you should absolutely be utilizing.
Preparing for emergencies can often feel like an insurmountable task. The list of essentials is long: food, water, shelter, among others. And if the thought of how to safely store or transport these necessities has ever crossed your mind — particularly when it comes to fuel or water — you’re in good company.
It’s a common concern that I once grappled with myself. Through both research and firsthand experiences, I’ve discovered that jerry cans are indispensable tools for emergency preparedness.
Originating in the 1930s for military use, the jerry can was engineered to be exceptionally durable and reliable for storing liquids such as gasoline or drinking water.
Getting familiar with their proper usage could indeed be a lifesaver.
In this article, we will dive deeper into everything to do with the jerry can. And if you don’t already have some, hopefully, this article will change your mind. These containers are absolute must-haves for anyone serious about being ready for any eventuality.
Here are some commonly purchased and used jerry cans you can pick up to have on hand and use for storage:
- Wavian NATO Can and Spout System
- Scepter Military Style Can
- Lifesaver Jerry Can
- US Standard Cold-Rolled Can
- Reliance Rigid Container
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- Jerry cans were invented by Germany in the 1930s to meet military needs for a durable fuel container. Americans, British, and Soviets later adopted them for their versatility and reliability.
- These containers come in metal or plastic with different sizes available, equipped with leak-proof seals and spouts for easy pouring. This makes jerry cans perfect for storing not just fuel but also water and other essential liquids.
- They are proven valuable in emergencies and natural disasters because they offer a secure way to transport clean water and fuel. Their design meets rigorous military standards, ensuring durability under tough conditions.
- Jerry cans are not only essential for emergency preparedness; they also serve as crucial gear in outdoor activities like camping or off-roading, where reliable liquid storage is necessary.
- Given their history of usage across various military operations worldwide, jerry cans have evolved into an indispensable tool for survivalists, preppers, and anyone needing a robust solution for liquid storage during crisis situations.
History of the Jerry Can
Jerry cans were initially invented by the Germans and later adapted by the Americans, becoming a necessity for the British and finding usage in Soviet operations.
German invention
Germany came up with the Jerry Can in the 1930s. The army needed a better way to carry fuel and asked businesses for help. This led to the creation of a 20-liter container that could handle tough situations.
It was not just any container — it had unique features like a three-handle design for easy carrying by one or two people, and it made pouring simple without needing extra tools.
This invention changed how armies and later civilians moved liquid fuels from place to place. Soon, its value went beyond military use, becoming key for outdoor activities like camping and crucial in emergency preparedness.
Its design allowed it to store various liquids securely, making it a versatile tool in many scenarios.
American adaptation of the NATO jerry can
The U.S. picked up on the German invention of jerry cans during World War II. These cans were too good to pass up, so Americans started making their own version. They used them for storing and transporting gasoline and water, just like the Germans did.
This was a game-changer for military logistics and helped keep vehicles running in tough situations.
Related Article: The History of Military Camo Patterns
American engineers tweaked the design a bit to fit their needs. They made sure these fuel containers could handle rough treatment without leaking or bursting. Now, whether it’s for off-roading adventures or preparing for emergencies at home, I always rely on these NATO-approved cans.
They’re durable and have that easy-pour spout, which saves time and prevents messes. The American adaptation of jerry cans has become a staple in my preparedness gear, proving its worth time and again across different scenarios — from natural disasters to outdoor explorations.
British necessity
I learned about the jerry cans during a dark time in history. It was 1940, and Germany invaded Norway. The British soldiers saw these containers for the first time. They named them “jerry cans,” which stuck.
These cans were not just any old containers. British forces needed something reliable to carry fuel and water as they moved across different battlefields.
Now, I always keep a few of these cans around. Not only do they remind me of the ingenuity required during tough times, but they also serve as a crucial part of my emergency kit.
Whether it’s for storing extra gasoline or making sure I have enough water, these NATO jerry cans are built tough — just what you need when things get rough out there.
Soviet usage
The jerry can played a vital role in Soviet fuel transportation and military operations during World War II. Its efficient design ensured reliable supply lines, contributing to the success of the Soviet military.
The durability and practicality of the jerry can make it indispensable for emergency preparedness in the Soviet Union.
Today, its significant impact on Soviet military operations underscores its importance for emergency preparedness. Whether facing natural disasters or emergencies, the jerry can remains an invaluable asset.
Features of the Jerry Can for Emergency Preparedness
Jerry cans come in various sizes and designs, including metal and plastic options with spouts for easy pouring, making them versatile for storing fuel or water. Learn more about the practical uses of jerry cans for emergency preparedness.
1. Durable container and certified for military use
Jerry cans, like the GELG Jerry Cans, are made with top-grade pressed steel and high-density polyethylene. They’re built to meet rigorous military durability standards and hold up against tough conditions.
NATO-spec Wavian cans sport 100% resistant paint to prevent flaking and come with a large spout for easy use in various gas-powered equipment.
The plastic Jerry Cans employed by the military boast quality and endurance while being a tad pricey. Notably, these GELG cans carry certificates recognized throughout the European Union, cementing their compliance with the toughest durability standards set forth — ensuring you can rely on them when it counts most.
2. Different sizes and designs (metal, plastic)
Jerry cans come in various sizes and designs, offering versatility for different needs. Here’s what you need to know:
- Plastic jerry cans are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them durable for long-term use.
- They are available in 1, 2.5, or 5-gallon sizes (or varying liters or litres depending on where you live), providing options for varying fuel or water storage needs.
- Metal jerry cans offer robustness and are suitable for more demanding outdoor activities like off-roading or camping.
- Both metal and plastic designs feature secure closures and leak-proof seals for reliability.
Remember that plastic jerry cans are lightweight and resistant to rust, while metal jerry cans provide durability for rugged outdoor usage.
3. Spouts for easy pouring
Jerry cans are equipped with a specific jerry can spout designed for precision pouring, making it easier to dispense fuel or water without spills. The flexible and rigid pouring spouts ensure a smooth flow of liquid, enhancing convenience during emergencies or outdoor activities such as camping.
The design of the spouts also minimizes evaporation and leakage, ensuring that every drop is utilized effectively.
The newer gas can spouts have been innovatively engineered to limit gas flow while simplifying the pouring process. This ensures that users can efficiently fill their equipment without wasting any fuel.
4. Can be used for various purposes (fuel cans, gas cans, water, etc.)
Jerry cans are versatile and can be used for multiple purposes, such as storing fuel, water, and other liquids. Here’s why they are essential:
- They provide a secure and portable way to store emergency fuel supplies, ensuring you have a reliable source during crises.
- The durable design makes them suitable for transporting and storing clean water, crucial for survival in emergencies.
- Their sturdy construction allows safe storage of chemicals or pharmaceuticals needed for medical or sanitation purposes.
- Jerry cans also offer a convenient way to carry and dispense lubricants or other fluids necessary for vehicle maintenance or operation.
These cans are designed to withstand harsh conditions and maintain the integrity of their contents when needed most.
You may even see people who own Jeeps or Hummers driving around with a stainless steel jerry can in a dedicated jerry can holder or rack that is mounted to their vehicle.
Related Article: Vehicle Jump Starters Are a Must for Car Battery Backup
Because jerry cans are heavy-duty, they can withstand the elements of being attached to the exterior of a vehicle. Having portable gasoline on your vehicle is a great idea for those who go off-roading or overlanding in case you get stuck in the middle of nowhere and are low on fuel.
Why Jerry Cans are Essential for Emergency Preparedness
Jerry cans are essential for emergency preparedness due to their versatility and portability. They provide a reliable source of clean water and fuel, making them invaluable during natural disasters or emergencies.
Additionally, they are suitable for various outdoor activities such as camping or off-roading. Even more simplistic, some people will use a jerry can to store their fuel for lawn care equipment such as tractors, lawn mowers, weed whackers, etc.
But overall, having portable gas on hand is never a bad idea.
1. Portable and easy to store without leakage
Jerry cans are crucial for emergency preparedness as they are easily transportable and can be conveniently stored. Plastic jerry cans, in particular, offer practicality due to their portability compared to steel ones.
With the increasing need for compact liquid storage solutions, collapsible jerry cans have become a popular choice.
These features make them an essential addition to any prepper or survivalist’s arsenal, providing convenience and reliability during times of crisis.
2. Reliable source of clean water and gasoline or diesel for vehicles
As a prepper or survivalist, having a reliable source of clean water and fuel is crucial for emergency preparedness. High-quality jerry cans are designed to store and transport clean water, ensuring you have access to this vital resource in times of need.
Related Article: Buckle Up & Lock It Down — Choosing Gun Safes for Vehicles
In addition, these cans can safely contain gasoline, diesel, and other fuels, providing you with the means to power essential tools and equipment during emergencies or natural disasters.
It’s important to note that jerry cans are not just durable but also versatile — they’re capable of holding various types of liquids, including chemicals and lubricants. This versatility makes them an indispensable tool for outdoor activities such as camping or off-roading, where access to clean water and fuel may be limited.
3. Can be used during natural disasters or emergencies
Jerry cans are a lifesaver during disasters or emergencies. They store water and fuel, providing much-needed resources. Their durability means they can handle tough situations. Having different sizes gives flexibility when storing essential supplies like water or fuel.
Preppers should have a jerry fuel can and spout as part of their emergency kit for access to clean water and necessary supplies amidst crises.
RELATED: SHTF Planning — Preparedness For Emergencies & SHTF Survival
During natural disasters or emergencies, jerry cans play a critical role in providing clean water and reliable fuel sources, making them indispensable tools for survivalists. Their durability, various size options, and versatility make them an essential item for managing challenging situations.
Additionally, you can keep a hose and funnel together with your jerry cans to siphon gas or even water into a jerry can if need be. You can then use the nozzle to pour out what you need and be completely portable.
4. Suitable fuel can and spout system for outdoor activities such as camping, off-roading, or overlanding
Jerry cans are a must-have for outdoor activities like camping and off-roading. These durable containers offer a reliable solution for fuel storage, ensuring you have enough gasoline for your journey.
In emergencies or when stranded in remote areas, jerry cans provide a crucial resource, serving as one of the top 10 survival tools and offering peace of mind for preppers and survivalists.
Their versatility makes them particularly useful — with the ability to store various fuels such as diesel, kerosene, and petrol, they become invaluable companions on adventurous trips.
Steel Jerry Cans Are Great as a Fuel Container or to Carry Gallons of Emergency Water
Jerry cans are a vital part of emergency preparedness kits. These durable containers play a crucial role in storing and transporting essential liquids like fuel and water during emergencies, ensuring a reliable source of supplies.
With their long history and versatile design, jerry cans are an indispensable tool for preppers, survivalists, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Their ability to provide portable and secure storage solutions makes them an essential addition to any emergency preparedness strategy.
So, whether you’re planning for natural disasters or embarking on outdoor adventures, including jerry cans in your preparation can make all the difference.
Here are some commonly purchased and used jerry cans you can pick up to have on hand and use for storage:
- Wavian NATO Can and Spout System
- Scepter Military Style Can
- Lifesaver Jerry Can
- US Standard Cold-Rolled Can
- Reliance Rigid Container
As a side note to close out this article, if you want to support our website and are in need of any tactical gear (or any product for that matter), anything you purchase using our links below will provide us with a small commission. We don’t charge for our free content and our goal is to keep it that way. We don’t have a Patreon account to put things behind a paywall, nor do we sell pics of our feet on OnlyFans.
If you choose to use the links below and make a purchase (at no additional cost to you), we greatly appreciate your support as it helps us continue to publish free content (like this article) on our website:
- Optics Planet (use code SAS5 at checkout for 5% off)
- Amazon
We have also partnered with CCW Safe. It’s the concealed carry coverage that I personally have for myself and my family in the event we need to defend our lives. Feel free to use our CCW Safe link to sign up and get some coverage to protect yourself and your family.
Also if you have a product you would like us to check out and potentially review, please contact us and let’s discuss.
Jerry Can FAQs
Jerry cans, especially those like the Wavian USA JC0020RVS red authentic NATO fuel can, are heavy-duty and reliable for storing fuel or water. With their sturdy steel build and secure lock systems, they ensure your supplies are safe and ready when you need them.
Typically, jerry cans come in sizes like 5 gallons or 20 liters — that’s a lot of gas or water! This size is practical for emergencies where you might need a substantial supply to keep going.
Nope! While many think of them as just “gas cans,” there’s variety: some are designed specifically for fuel with features like safety spouts, and others, like the lifesaver jerrycan water model, are meant for carrying drinking water. It’s all about picking the right one for your needs.
Absolutely! Finding parts like gas can spout replacements or gaskets isn’t tough. Many brands offer these components to extend the life of your can.
“NATO” refers to standards agreed upon by NATO countries; it means these jerry cans meet strict guidelines for durability and safety… kind of a big deal if you’re relying on them in an emergency!
Yes, indeed! For storing something like emergency water, make sure you’re using containers specifically intended for that purpose — materials matter when it comes to keeping things clean and safe.
Jerry Can Resources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerrycan
- https://www.jerrycans.co.uk/the-difference-between-commercial-domestic-jerry-cans/
- https://www.jerrycan.com/
- https://colemans.com/surplus-guide/post/best-use-of-military-jerry-cans
- https://www.shtfready.com/threads/1554-Plastic-Jerry-Cans
- https://theprepared.com/gear/reviews/gas-can/
- https://www.tooled-up.com/blog/all-about-jerry-cans/
- https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2023/CPSC-Requires-Lifesaving-Flame-Mitigation-Devices-on-Gas-Cans-and-Other-Portable-Fuel-Containers
- https://www.fcs.uga.edu/extension/preparing-an-emergency-food-supply-short-term-food-storage
- https://www.mass.gov/doc/recommendations-of-the-massachusetts-task-force-on-emergency-preparedness-and-people-0/download
- https://www.osha.gov/emergency-preparedness
- https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/keep-food-safe-after-emergency.html
*Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links or ads, which means we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. These commissions help support the operation and maintenance of our website, allowing us to continue producing free valuable content. Your support is genuinely appreciated, whether you choose to use our links or not. Thank you for being a part of our community and enjoying our content.
PLEASE CONSIDER SHARING THIS ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA TO HELP OTHERS LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TOPIC. SIMPLY CLICK BELOW!
