Five Reliable Methods for Purifying Contaminated Water
After a disaster, access to clean water becomes a critical concern. Because the usual sources, such as taps and bottled water, may not be available, it is essential to have a strategy in place to ensure safe water. Contaminants in water can range from bacteria and viruses to harmful chemicals and even arsenic, making it unsafe to drink.
While some contaminated water may only have an unpleasant odor or taste, it is crucial that it is safe to consume. Fortunately, there are several methods for purifying water, many of which require minimal equipment, as long as you have access to natural heat sources such as fire or sunlight.
1. Cooking
Boiling is one of the simplest and most effective ways to purify water. Boiling water can kill most bacteria and viruses and remove many other impurities. However, it is important to note that boiling does not remove arsenic, so this method should only be used if you are sure that the water does not contain arsenic.
The main limitation of cooking is the need for a heat source, such as a fire or gas stove. In situations where these are not available, you can still utilize sunlight by placing water in a dark container exposed to direct sunlight. The black container absorbs heat and causes the water to boil.
2. Purification with Ultraviolet Light
Ultraviolet (UV) light is a powerful tool for disinfecting water. Ultraviolet light has long been used in water treatment plants to kill harmful microorganisms. In a disaster scenario, portable UV lamps can be used to purify water by placing the container of water under the light for several minutes. For complete sterilization, it is recommended to expose the water to UV light for at least 20 minutes.
UV lamps are affordable and can be found in many stores. While this method is effective, keep in mind that it may not completely eliminate all bacteria and viruses if the exposure time is shortened.
3. Distillation
Distillation is another very effective method of water purification. This process involves heating water until it evaporates, capturing the vapor, and then condensing it back into liquid form. The vapor, now free of impurities, is collected in a separate container, leaving the contaminants behind.
Distillation is particularly useful for removing chemical toxins from water. While setting up a distillation system may require some ingenuity with available materials, a solar still can be a great way to accomplish this without traditional heating sources.
4. Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis (RO) is an advanced method that requires specialized equipment but is very effective at removing almost all contaminants, including arsenic. RO systems are commonly used in water treatment plants, but are also available in portable, pocket-sized versions for personal use.
Disgusting To use this method, you will need a source of water pressure, such as a pump or pressure tank. The water flows through a semipermeable membrane that filters out contaminants and leaves behind clean drinking water. While reverse osmosis is ideal for larger quantities, portable units can be used for small-scale purification.
5. Bleach (Chlorine) Purification
Household bleach, often used as a cleaning agent, can also be used to purify water. There are two methods: adding bleach directly to the water or using a mixture of bleach and water to “activate” the chlorine. Activated chlorine is more effective at killing bacteria and viruses and can also combat other contaminants.
When using bleach to purify water, it is critical to follow the CDC recommended dosage to avoid over-purification, which can lead to an unpleasant taste. After treatment, let the water sit for 30 minutes to allow the chlorine to settle and do not ingest it.
Conclusion
It is vital to have access to clean water during emergencies, and there are several methods available to purify contaminated water. Cooking and purifying with ultraviolet light are effective, but they require a heat source, which is not always feasible. Reverse osmosis offers a thorough purification process, but requires specific equipment. Bleach offers a readily available option, but it is important to carefully follow guidelines to avoid overuse.
In any emergency situation, the best purification method is the one you have at your disposal. It is a good precaution to have an emergency water filter or other purification tools on hand so you are prepared to get clean water when you need it most.
