- If you are traveling or camping, taking iodine tablets is one of the most efficient ways to ensure you will have purified, safe drinking water. The main ingredient in iodine tablets is tetraglycine hydroperiodide; simply place the tablet in the water and allow to sit for 30 minutes if the water temperature is cold. If the water is extremely cloudy, use two tablets to ensure the water is safe to drink. Liquid iodine may also be used, but some find it harder to determine how much solution to use. The common dosage for liquid iodine is five drops for a half-gallon of water.
- At retail stores, you may find a wide selection of home water filters to either place on the kitchen faucet or fill up and place in the refrigerator. Many use charcoal to filter out contaminants and metals from tap water, so use as directed on the package since each water filter is different. While the water filter may be efficient and economical for those who do not want to install a water purifier, costs will add up as you buy replacement filters every few months.
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In the event of an emergency when there is no fresh water, boiling it is the most efficient and safe way to purify water. Depending on your altitude, boiling times may vary; however, the common formula is to boil the water for five to 10 minutes, adding an additional minute for every 300 meters above sea level.
Boiling the water is effective in destroying parasites and one of the easiest ways to ensure drinking water is safe. Boiling temperatures should be at 200 degrees at sea level, 203 degrees up to 5,000 feet and 194 degrees at 10,000 feet.
