How to Clean Up Dirty Water to Make Clean Drinking Water

Clean water is the greatest necessity to human life. A human can survive only a short period of time without water. Dirty water can cause serious illness or death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hepatitis, giardia, which is a gastric illness-producing microorganism, and copper are present in certain water samples. Private wells are also a significant source of water contamination. When traveling, water quality may vary. Treat any suspect water as contaminated.

Things You'll Need

• kettle
• lighter
• wood
• canteen

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Inspect the water source. Follow any posted warnings.

   • 2

     Fill the canteen with water. Transfer water into the kettle.

   • 3

     Gather wood. Place the wood in pile and ignite it with the lighter.

   • 4

     Hold the kettle above the campfire. Wait for the water to begin boiling, then allow it to boil for one minute.

   • 5

     Extinguish the campfire. Wait for the water to cool.