According to SurvivalTopics.com, the human body can survive up to 5 days in the shade, even at 100 degrees, without water.
For most of us, not having easy access to water is a definite inconvenience, but it's far from an issue of survival. It can be, however, a way to raise awareness about people living in poverty who lack access to water, sanitation and hygiene.
Erin Lamb and her 5-year-old daughter Ryann went a day without water and found it an eye-opening experience. Their family did the experiment to help Ryann understand what others who live without water might be facing—including her new little sister, who is awaiting adoption from Ethiopia.
"It was a constant reminder of how blessed we are," Erin said of the experience. "What we find inconvenient is multiplied a thousand times for others."
Mom and daughter had decided they would use only water they purchased and carried home on foot that day. The half-mile, uphill walk was strenuous carrying a two-and-a-half gallon jug of water and some bottles in a backpack, but nothing compared to the miles women in rural Africa walk with five-gallon jerricans—every day—in hot temperatures.
They didn't bathe, use their faucets, washing machine, dishwasher or flush toilets—except for solid waste. Conserving every drop of their rations they bought, they used only hand sanitizer and even brushed their teeth without water.
"The most uncomfortable thing was not feeling clean," said Erin. "You realize how often you take water for granted for things like cleanliness."
The most valuable part was having an ongoing dialog with Ryann throughout the day about how living without water might feel. The next morning, when Erin finally turned on the tap, Ryann chided her, "Don't waste that water, Mom!"
Ready to take the challenge? We're asking people to go a day without water on Saturday, June 30. Make the pledge below to go without water, then, tell us about your experience on Facebook on July 1.
Tips for a Day Without Water:
*You are encouraged to stay safely hydrated. Always check with your doctor before limiting your water intake for any amount of time. Make sure children have plenty to drink.
Clean water is vital—but it's one step in bringing better health to an extremely poor community. By donating $44 a month for three months, you'll help address the issues desperate communities face when they lack clean water.
