3 Ways to Purify Water for Survival

We are used to the luxury of walking over to the sink and having safe water at our fingertips fresh from the tap, but in the wild, water is not generally safe for drinking. Because water is seldom pure, it is essential to know how to purify water for survival in any SHTF emergency.

If you are not absolutely certain that the water is safe, you must purify it. Clean water is crucial to good health and survival. Water that is polluted can contain microorganisms that can cause serious illness. These can really take there toll on someone out in the wilderness. Stomach issues are not pleasant in the comfort of home, let alone out in the wild. Do what you can to protect yourself and your family.

Chemical pollutants are also a concern in some areas. Such chemicals as herbicides or pesticides from farming industries. This form of pollution is another problem that cannot be seen in the water.

Purifying Water

1- Filtration

There are three main ways to purify water. Filtration is one method for cleaning water that removes the visible particles in the water. Your sock or T-shirt can become a filter or strainer to remove dirt and debris from the water. A filtering water bottle can be a useful tool for an outdoor survival kit. Do remember that filtering water is not the same as purifying water. You can also read more on filtering water for survival here.

2- Boiling

Boiling is a safe way to remove harmful microorganisms. Boiling water does not remove chemical pollutants from the water. Water must boil rapidly for just a few minutes to be safe, but in some cases, this method is not practical. If you are able to create a fire, you may be able to boil the water sufficiently for safety.

3- Chemical

Many outdoor survival kits include iodine or purification tablets to purify water and make it safe for consumption. Check the contents of your outdoor survival kit to see if such items are included. If not, purchase this item to supplement your current outdoor survival kit. Learn how to use the specific products that you have available. Follow the directions carefully for any chemicals to purify your water. The water is safe to drink using such methods, but know that the taste does not improve.

To improve the taste of your drinking water, it is a good idea to combine filtration and purification methods for the best taste.

Best Case Situation

A combination of these methods can make the water safe and improve the taste. It is crucial to locate water and make it healthy for consumption in an outdoor survival situation. Use what items you have with you, as well as, the items found in nature.

Begin with the water that appears the clearest. Moving surface water (eg. streams, rivers) is always the first choice whenever available. Stagnant water is the least favorable for survival. Stagnant water is very prone to microorganisms and parasites. Water that is not moving and shows no sign of life is a warning to you. Stay away from such water whenever it is possible.

Safe, pure water is key to survival. Dehydration is a real concern in an outdoor survival situation. Use purification methods to ensure your good health during outdoor survival situations. Staying hydrated with clean drinking water can allow you to survive for a significant period of time in the wilderness.