Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

Access to clean water is crucial for survival. In emergency situations, natural water sources like rainwater, rivers, lakes, and streams may be contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemicals. Knowing how to purify water ensures you have a reliable source of safe drinking water.

What You Need

Materials

  • A clean container for collecting water
  • A clean pot or kettle for boiling water
  • A clean container for storing purified water
  • A water filter (optional)
  • Bleach (optional)
  • Iodine tablets (optional)
  • A solar still (optional)

Tools

  • A stove or fire for boiling water
  • A thermometer (optional)
  • A sieve or cloth for filtering debris

Knowledge

Understanding the different methods of water purification and their effectiveness against various contaminants.

Step-by-Step Instructions or Key Techniques

Boiling

  1. Collect water in a clean container.
  2. Pour the water into a pot or kettle.
  3. Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute (three minutes if you are at an altitude above 6,500 feet).
  4. Let the water cool before drinking.

Filtration

  1. Collect water in a clean container.
  2. Pour the water through a filter or sieve to remove large debris.
  3. If using a water filter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filtering the water.

Chemical Treatment

  1. Collect water in a clean container.
  2. Add one drop of unscented household bleach per quart of water (or two drops per liter).
  3. Stir the water and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  4. If the water does not have a slight chlorine smell after 30 minutes, add another drop and wait another 15 minutes before drinking.

Solar Still

  1. Dig a hole in the ground and line it with plastic.
  2. Place a container in the center of the plastic.
  3. Pour contaminated water around the container.
  4. Cover the hole with plastic and secure the edges.
  5. Place a small rock in the center of the plastic to create a depression over the container.
  6. As the sun heats the contaminated water, it will evaporate and condense on the plastic, dripping into the container.
  7. Collect the purified water from the container.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Not boiling water long enough: Ensure water is brought to a rolling boil and maintained for the recommended time.
  • Using contaminated containers: Always use clean containers for collecting and storing water.
  • Incorrect chemical treatment: Follow precise instructions for chemical treatments to avoid under or over-treatment.
  • Neglecting to filter debris: Always filter water before boiling or chemical treatment to remove large particles.

Variations, Tips, or Related Techniques Worth Knowing

  • Combining methods: For maximum safety, consider combining boiling with chemical treatment or filtration.
  • Solar stills: Useful in sunny climates where boiling water is not feasible.
  • Emergency water sources: In addition to rainwater, consider using dew or condensation from plants.
  • Storage: Store purified water in clean, sealed containers to prevent recontamination.
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