Wilderness Survival Tips: Water Purification

When it comes to wilderness survival, the most important thing to remember is the Rule of Threes.

What is the Rule of Threes?

Put simply, a human can survive:

• 3 minutes without oxygen
• 3 hours without shelter
• 3 days without water
• 3 weeks without food

Of course, just because you can go these long without these things doesn’t mean you should, or that you won’t suffer severe health consequences because of it. Staying hydrated is especially important to your survival and overall health.

How much water do we need?

In order to stay hydrated, most people need:

• 2 liters of water per day when at rest
• An additional 2 liters per hour when exercising or participating in other strenuous activity

What are the dangers of not drinking enough water?

Going without water, especially in a wilderness survival situation, can lead to:

• Fatigue
• Exhaustion
• Decreased endurance

What are the dangers of drinking unfiltered water?

• Giardia

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes the diarrheal illness known as giardiasis. Giardia (also known as Giardia intestinalis, Giardia lamblia, or Giardia duodenalis) is found on surfaces or in soil, food, or water that has been contaminated with feces (poop) from infected humans or animals.

• Cryptosporidium

Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that causes the diarrheal disease cryptosporidiosis. Both the parasite and the disease are commonly known as “Crypto.”

• E. coli

Although most strains of E. coli are harmless, others can make you sick. Some kinds of E. coli can cause diarrhea, while others cause urinary tract infections, respiratory illness and pneumonia, and other illnesses.

To learn more about wilderness survival and water purification, watch the video below.

SPECIAL: The perfect water filter for home, camping or bugging in (or out.)

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