3 ways to purify water

WRITTEN BY JON

Access to clean and safe drinking water is essential for survival, and while most people have access to clean water from a tap or water treatment facility, there may be times when you find yourself in a survival situation or in an area where water sources are scarce or contaminated. In such cases, it's important to know how to purify water to make it safe for drinking. Here are three ways to purify water in the wild or in an emergency situation.

Boiling

Boiling is one of the most effective and simplest ways to purify water. By bringing water to a rolling boil for at least one minute, you can kill most disease-causing organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Boiling water at high elevations, like in the mountains, can be more effective as the pressure decreases, and water boils at a lower temperature.

Filtering

Another way to purify water is by filtering it. There are various types of water filters available, such as pump filters, gravity filters, and straw filters. These filters work by removing physical particles, such as sediment, and microorganisms that may be present in the water. It's important to note that not all filters remove viruses, so if you're in an area where viruses are a concern, you may want to consider using a filter that is specifically designed to remove them.

Chemical Treatment

Chemical treatment is another way to purify water. There are several chemicals that can be used to purify water, including chlorine, iodine, and chlorine dioxide. These chemicals work by killing microorganisms that may be present in the water. It's important to follow the instructions on the chemical treatment carefully, and to make sure that the water is safe to drink before consuming it.

When purifying water in the wild or in an emergency situation, it's important to keep in mind that water from different sources may have different levels of contamination. Water from a clear stream may be less contaminated than water from a stagnant pond, for example. Additionally, the water may contain other contaminants, such as heavy metals or chemicals, that cannot be removed by boiling, filtering, or chemical treatment. In such cases, it's best to avoid drinking the water, and to look for other sources of water.

In conclusion, having access to clean and safe drinking water is essential for survival. Knowing how to purify water in the wild or in an emergency situation is an important skill that could save your life. Boiling, filtering and chemical treatment are three effective ways to purify water. Keep in mind that the quality of water can vary depending on the source and the presence of other contaminants, and it's always better to take a multi-layered approach to ensure that the water you drink is safe.