What are the different water treatment solutions that you can use in case of an emergency? The regular supply of water can be contaminated when disaster strikes. In particular, natural disasters like flooding and earthquake can contaminate our water supply.
Water is essential for survival. There are several ways on how we can treat water and make it safe for consumption. Keep in mind that it is not only important to have an adequate water supply during emergencies, but we also need to learn ways to treat water.
For instance, during a disaster, extreme caution should be taken before using water from any source such as rivers or streams. The water might look clear, but it does not mean that it is safe for human consumption. There are pathogens present in the water that will make us sick.
As a matter of fact, it might take a long time before the normal supply of water will be restored. Most especially if there is a pipe breakage that needs to be repaired for a couple of days. Disasters could happen anytime and anywhere, so we always need to be prepared.
Usually, we use bottled water during emergencies. The only problem is what if the supply of bottled water runs out? The only way is to get water from different water sources, but we need to use different water treatment solutions to eliminate bacteria and chemicals in the water.
In fact, when looking for a water source, make sure to find the cleanest possible source. Contaminated water usually has an odor and dark color. You might even find floating materials in it. On the other hand, contaminated water is more difficult to treat and could still be dangerous to your health. The common contaminants in water are bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
Types Of Water Treatment Solutions
Chemicals
An effective way to treat contaminated water is by using chemicals. This is particularly effective in removing harmful waterborne microorganisms. Using chemicals is an inexpensive way to treat water.
There are two types of chemicals that you can use to treat water. We have chlorine-based and iodine-based treatments. However, you will need to wait for some time before you can use the water. Typically, it takes around 30 minutes up to 4 hours when purifying water using chemicals. Just read the instructions on the package.
Specifically, iodine products may leave a chemical aftertaste, but this can easily be removed by using taste-neutralizing tablets. Extreme caution should be taken when using iodine chemicals, especially for pregnant women and people with thyroid conditions.
Boiling
One of the most efficient and inexpensive water treatments is boiling your water. In the event of a disaster, you might need to set up a campfire to boil your water. You can also use portable stoves for boiling water.
When boiling water, make sure that you boil the water for at least one up to three minutes before using it. In fact, the high boiling temperature will kill most bacteria and viruses.
Pump Filters
Pump filters are very easy to use and affordable. This is also an effective way to treat water during an emergency. You can collect water from almost any water source and use pump filters for filtration.
Pump filters are very efficient in physically removing bacteria. The best thing about pump filters is that you can pump the precise amount of water that you need. Some pump filters are designed to collect water from shallow water sources.
In addition, some models of pump filters are equipped with prefilters. The water is filtered by the prefilter first before reaching the main filter. The prefilter removes large particles and debris from the water source. It also helps extend the element life of the main filter.
Keep in mind to regularly clean both filters regularly to remove dirt and other particles that have built up. It would be better to replace the filter over time.
Bottle Filters
Bottle filters are portable and very easy to use. All you need to do is to fill up the bottle with water directly from the source. In fact, bottle filters have a built-in filtration system. You can drink directly from the filter lid or bite valve.
Some bottle filters work like a coffee press and others use UV light and a bit valve. The only downside is that bottle filters can only hold a limited amount of water. Make sure to clean the filter regularly.
Gravity Filters
Gravity filters work with gravity itself, so it is effortless. You do not need to do any pumping or squeezing. It is also very easy to use and all you have to do is fill up the water bag with water coming from any water source.
I would recommend looking for the cleanest water source possible. It could be a stream, lake, or river. In fact, some harmful microorganisms cannot survive on continuous running water. Simply fill up the water bag and look for the best place to hang the bag.
Once the bag is hanged in place, gravity will pull down the water into the water filter and clean water will be collected to another bag. The process may take a while. Gravity filters are available for solo use or you can buy one for a larger group.
Final Thoughts
Different water treatment solutions are very important, especially in a disaster or an emergency. When you find yourself in an emergency situation, always look for the cleanest water source possible. Whether you are going to use a water filter or water purifiers, always make it a point to read the instructions that come with the product.
I would recommend preparing two types of filtration systems in your emergency pack. For instance, a pump filter and chemicals or any combination of water treatment solutions for as long as you have another way of disinfecting water. In fact, if you are living off the grid, you might want to invest in a good water filtration system
Water is essential to our body and we need to keep our body functioning properly during an emergency situation. The different water treatment solutions provided above will help you survive and avoid getting dehydrated. Not only will you be able to drink water every day, but it will also ensure that you have clean and safe drinking water.
