Outdoor Fundamentals: Everything You Need to Know to Stay Safe Season 1 Episode 15 Safe Drinking Water in the Wilderness

Outdoor Fundamentals: Everything You Need to Know to Stay Safe is a show that provides the essential knowledge for those who love getting out in nature. In season 1 episode 15, entitled Safe Drinking Water in the Wilderness, we explore the importance of having access to clean water while out in the backcountry.

Hosts, Jane and Michael, take us through the various ways water quality can be compromised in the wilderness: from pollutants to bacteria, parasites, and viruses. The hosts stress the importance of knowing the risks associated with the different water sources you may encounter and the potential consequences of drinking contaminated water, like contracting giardia or other water-borne illnesses.

The hosts provide several methods for purifying water in the wilderness. They start with boiling, which is the most effective and straightforward method of killing most contaminants. They explain how to make a fire if you don't have a portable stove and the correct pot to use. Next, they introduce chemical treatments, such as iodine and chlorine tablets/drops, which are easy to pack, lightweight, and have a long shelf life. However, these treatments can take longer and don't remove particulates. They also discuss the use of water filters, which can remove bacteria and viruses but not necessarily chemical pollutants.

Jane and Michael emphasize the importance of using more than one method to purify water and the benefits of redundancy. They recommend having two or three backup methods in case your primary system fails. They also emphasize that it's essential to read the labels and instructions carefully for any water treatment method you choose to use.

In addition to discussing different purification methods, the hosts offer tips for locating safe water sources in the wilderness, including the importance of elevation and current. They warn about collecting water downstream from animal activity as this can introduce fecal matter and other contaminants. They also recommend staying away from stagnant water sources, such as swamps or small ponds, as these can harbor bacteria and parasites.

Finally, the hosts provide tips for storing water and keeping it safe to drink throughout your trip. They recommend using durable, reusable containers, such as collapsible water bottles, and keeping your water source separate from your drinking water. They also urge campers to keep their hands clean when handling water and to use hand sanitizer or soap to avoid introducing bacteria to their water supply.

In summary, season 1 episode 15 of Outdoor Fundamentals: Everything You Need to Know to Stay Safe, titled Safe Drinking Water in the Wilderness, provides crucial information about the importance of safe drinking water while camping or hiking in the backcountry. The hosts cover various methods for purifying water, tips for locating safe sources, and provide advice for storing water throughout your trip. This episode is a must-watch for anyone planning a wilderness adventure.