I have a check valve at the water meter so that once I pay for the water, they're not getting it back if their pressure drops! I also have a 40 gallon pressure tank so that the water will flow for a while even with the county supply off. I have two 30gal. drums of water, & am working on a pump system to pressurize the tank. The pressure tank is one of those with the rubber bladder separating the compressed air from the water. For 2 people,1 dog & 2 cats, we should be good for a month, although generator fuel will run out before that. Also, The suggestion about reading the meter to determine your actual water usage is a good one. Thanks to Brangdon! I will have to try that.