Here are three common ways to treat water found in the outdoors to make it safe for drinking:
- Boiling: This is the simplest and most reliable method, eliminating virtually all bacteria, parasites, and viruses.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute (3 minutes at elevations above 6,500 feet).
- Let the water cool completely before drinking.
- Drawback: Boiling uses fuel and doesn’t remove impurities that may affect taste.
- Chemical Treatment: Chlorine tablets, iodine tablets, or chlorine dioxide tablets are lightweight and portable options.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as dosage and waiting times can vary.
- Generally, you’ll add a specific number of tablets per quantity of water, then wait 30 minutes to an hour for chlorine or iodine, and several hours for chlorine dioxide (depending on the presence of Giardia).
- Drawbacks: May not be effective against all pathogens, and some people find the taste unpleasant, especially with iodine.
- Water Filtration: Portable water filters can remove a variety of contaminants, including bacteria, parasites, and some chemicals.
- Choose a filter suitable for your needs, considering factors like pore size and capacity.
- Pump or squeeze water through the filter according to the instructions.
- Drawbacks: Filters require maintenance and replacement cartridges, and some may not be effective against viruses.
Choosing the right method depends on your situation:
- Boiling is best for guaranteed reliability, especially in emergencies.
- Chemical treatment is a good option for portability and ease of use on short hikes.
- Water filters are ideal for longer adventures when repeated treatment is needed, but require more planning and maintenance.