Survival: How to Purify Water

If you are in a survival situation and need to purify water from a creek or lake, there are several methods you can use to make the water safe to drink using resources found in nature.

Here are a few options:

Boiling

Boiling is one of the most effective ways to purify water. To boil water, you will need a heat source, like a fire or a stove, and a container to hold the water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let it boil for at least one minute to kill any bacteria or viruses.

Filtration

Filtering water can help to remove dirt, sediment, and other particles that may be present in the water. To filter water, you will need a filter and a container to hold the water. There are a variety of natural materials that can be used as filters, including sand, gravel, and rocks. To use a filter, simply pour the water through the filter into the container.

Chlorination

Chlorination is a method of purifying water that involves adding a small amount of chlorine to the water. To chlorinate water, you will need a source of chlorine, like bleach or iodine, and a container to hold the water. Follow the instructions on the product label to determine the correct amount of chlorine to add to the water.

Solar disinfection

Solar disinfection, or SODIS, is a method of purifying water that uses the sun's UV rays to kill bacteria and viruses. To use this method, you will need a clear container and a sunny location. Fill the container with water and place it in the sun for at least six hours to allow the UV rays to kill any contaminants.

It's important to note that while these methods can help to purify water, they are not foolproof and may not be effective in all situations. If you are in a survival situation and need to purify water, it's important to be cautious and to follow the recommended guidelines to ensure that the water is safe to drink.