by Teia Rogers

Created on: July 28, 2009

It's tempting to dip your hands into cool rushing water and take a sip. Unless you're prepared to spend the rest of your trip in the bushes, don't do it. Your grandparents probably told you about a time when drinking water from rivers and streams was a perfectly acceptable practice. Those days are over. With decades of pollutions continuing to wreak havoc on soils and streams the only way to experience safe drinking water in the great outdoors, is to purify it. Contact your local ranger to determine if water coming from spigots is potable. If you aren't sure, assume that it isn't.

Waterborne illnesses are not pleasant. They can leave you with intense stomach cramps, diarrhea, dehydration, vomiting and gas. Neither of these is enjoyable when you're on a hike or camping with friends. It's always best to check with the ranger about your camp site. The ranger's office will give you valuable information about the area and dangers that you should look out for. Water is the most important element in life. If you find yourself on a long hike without potable water, the results could be life threatening.

Purification tablets are a handy thing to have around. Their ease of use is a benefit but they add a flavor to water that might not be appealing. Boiling water is another means of purifying water. To be safe, make sure that you get the water to a rolling boil. A rolling boil means that big bubbles are rumbling at the top of the pot. It doesn't count to have bubbles hanging out at the bottom. Keep water boiling for at least five minutes.

It is acceptable to use non-potable running water to wash dishes. It is important to ensure that your dishes are completely dry before you put food on them. Waterborne parasites won't be able to live on your dry plates. Simply ensure that you have totally dried your utensils before you use them. Setting them out in the sun is always a great way to get your kitchen items safe and dry.

It's always best to stay away from stagnant water. Any discolored, sitting water should be avoided. The best way to plan for a trip is to ensure that you have more than enough access to water. For active camping you should be drinking at least a gallon of water per day. This does not include any water you would need for cooking or cleaning. Make sure you plan accordingly in case you end up stuck for a day or so. Whether you haul in your own water, get it from a spigot or a stream, it's always important to ensure that it's safe. It's better safe than squatting.

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