Basic Water Purification Methods

As a professional prepper, I’ve learned that access to clean drinking water is crucial in any survival situation. Whether you’re facing a natural disaster, economic collapse, or social unrest, having a reliable method to purify water can be a lifesaver. In this post, I’ll cover the basic ways to purify water, from boiling to chemical treatment, and provide practical tips for preppers.

Boiling Water

Boiling water is one of the oldest and most effective methods of purification. It’s simple, yet effective against bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. To boil water:

1. Bring water to a rolling boil for 1-3 minutes.
2. Use a thermometer to ensure the water reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Let the water cool before drinking.

Portable Water Filters

Portable water filters are a popular choice among preppers. These filters use ceramic or membrane technology to remove bacteria, parasites, and particulate matter. Some popular options include:

1. Sawyer Mini Water Filter: Lightweight, compact, and effective against 99.99% of bacteria and parasites.
2. Lifestraw Personal Water Filter: Easy to use, with a built-in straw and filter cartridge.

Chemical Treatment

Chemical treatment involves adding disinfectants to water to kill bacteria and viruses. Popular options include:

1. Bleach (sodium hypochlorite): Add 8 drops of 5.25% bleach per liter of water.
2. Iodine (tincture of iodine): Add 2-4 drops per liter of water.
3. Chlorine dioxide tablets (e.g., AquaSafe): Follow manufacturer instructions.

UV Purification

UV (ultraviolet) light purification uses light to kill bacteria and viruses. This method is effective against Giardia and Cryptosporidium, but may not remove particulate matter or chemical contaminants.

1. UV water purifiers, such as SteriPen or AquaShield, use UV light to disinfect water.
2. Solar disinfection (SODIS): Place water in a clear plastic bottle and leave it in direct sunlight for 6 hours.

DIY Methods

For those who prefer a more DIY approach, consider the following methods:

1. Sand filtration: Use a sand-filled container to filter out particulate matter.
2. Charcoal filtration: Use activated charcoal to remove impurities and improve taste.
3. Alum (aluminum sulfate) treatment: Add 1-2 teaspoons of alum per liter of water to remove particulate matter and improve clarity.

Tips for Preppers

1. Store water purification equipment: Keep your chosen purification method readily available in your emergency kit or bug-out bag.
2. Practice and maintain: Regularly test and maintain your purification equipment to ensure effectiveness.
3. Combine methods: Use multiple purification methods, such as boiling and chemical treatment, for added assurance.
4. Know your water source: Understand the potential contaminants in your water source and adjust your purification method accordingly.

In conclusion, as a professional prepper, it’s essential to have multiple methods for purifying water in your survival kit. Whether you choose boiling, portable filters, chemical treatment, UV purification, or DIY methods, having a reliable way to purify water can mean the difference between life and death in a crisis situation. Stay prepared, stay safe!