In times of natural disasters or emergency situations, one of the most important survival considerations is the need for a source of clean, drinkable water. Acquiring certified water filtration systems for both individuals and groups should be well thought out beforehand for your own peace of mind.
Why do you need supplemental water filtration during emergencies?
Municipal water treatment facilities incorporate a host of treatments and filtration activities in order to meet strict government health requirements. However, during times of emergencies, these treatments may be compromised or cut off altogether, making any available water sources potentially unsafe.
Various government studies have identified potential contaminants and ways to address them in the home. By taking the time to research and become aware of what you may face in your home or community during a crisis, you increase the chances that you and your family can remain in good health until municipal facilities are restored.
Also, when dealing with an emergency situation, clear thinking is necessary to provide for survival needs and avoid potential injury or sickness. You’ll need sufficient water intake to prevent dehydration, which can cause disorientation, dizziness, headaches, irritability, and lethargy.
Without proper treatment or filtration, water can become contaminated in a number of ways. Exposure to unclean elements such as waste products and pollutants in the ground or air may cause any of the following to be present in water sources:
- Bacteria, such as coli
- Viruses, causing conditions such as hepatitis, meningitis, or gastroenteritis
- Parasites/protozoa, which cause a variety of intestinal distresses and other physical reactions
- Unsafe levels of organic or inorganic chemicals
Extreme storms may cause organic contamination from sources such as gas stations, landfills, other industrial sources, or even private garages. Inorganic sources of pollutants include heavy metals such as lead, chemicals such as chlorine or fluoride, and other toxins such as arsenic. Even in times of normalcy, it’s a good idea to have your home’s faucet water tested for unsafe levels of these chemicals.
Radioactive contaminants could also become a factor in some emergencies. In this case, it’s beneficial to know how to distill water in order to ensure undesirable particles are removed. Special filtration systems may also remove radioactive fallout from drinking water.
Clean water options
Keeping a supply of bottled water is a start, but may not be enough to last through an emergency. You should also know the correct procedures for purifying water by boiling or adding household chemicals such as bleach. It may also be a good idea to have a plan for collecting rainwater for times of shortages.
However, if it becomes necessary to leave your home or if you’re caught away, a portable water filtration system can literally be a lifesaver. Water suitable for drinking, personal hygiene, and cooking is necessary for overall health wherever you may find yourself.
There are many other types of water purification procedures, including the use of activated carbon, ultraviolet light, or reverse osmosis. Purchasing a certified water purification system for emergency situations can help simplify the potable water issue by providing hundreds of gallons of clean water without devoting extensive time and purchasing special supplies.
Knowledge is power, and in an unpredictable world, it’s important to be ready for any crisis that may come your way. Clean water is essential for maintaining quality of life and health during trying times. Don’t wait until it’s too late to plan for emergency situations. You can take steps now to acquire the needed knowledge and equipment to tide you over through the worst of times.