Water purification is crucial for survival as contaminated water can cause severe illness. Understanding different purification methods and when to use them can mean the difference between life and death in a survival situation.
The most reliable method for killing harmful organisms. Bring water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute (3 minutes at high altitudes above 5,000 feet).
Using iodine tablets or chlorine dioxide to kill harmful microorganisms. Effective but requires proper dosing and waiting time.
Using commercial filters or improvised methods to remove contaminants, particles, and some microorganisms from water.
Using sunlight or UV devices to neutralize harmful organisms. Requires clear water and sufficient exposure time.
Remove large particles using cloth or improvised filters. Let sediment settle if possible.
Select the most appropriate method based on available resources and situation.
Apply chosen purification method following proper procedures and timing.
Store purified water in clean containers to prevent recontamination.
If possible, verify purification success using available testing methods.
Commercial water filter with replaceable cartridges
Iodine or chlorine dioxide tablets
Metal container and fire-starting materials
Cloth, coffee filters, or activated charcoal
E. coli, Salmonella, and other harmful bacteria that can cause severe illness.
Hepatitis A, rotavirus, and other waterborne viral threats.
Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and other dangerous parasitic organisms.
Industrial pollutants, agricultural runoff, and natural mineral contamination.
Using clear plastic bottles and sunlight to treat water over 6+ hours.
Creating multi-layer filters using natural materials like sand, charcoal, and gravel.
Using simple solar stills or boiling with collection methods to purify water.