First, let us dispel the misconception that color equals purity levels of water. The color of water is not indicative of purity. A bayou maybe purer than a sapphire-colored mountain lake. Disease producing germs transmitted in water generally come from animal matter more than vegetable matter. However, this does not mean it is okay to dip your head in the bayou without some form of purification process. Below are a few ways we can purify water in an emergency situation.
I. We now know boiling water concentrates any lead in water. So, where this is the easiest way I personally caution against this being the FIRST method you use. A rolling boil: 212F or 100C for 3 to 20 mins. will sterilize most water. It will taste flat however, taste is NOT the most important thing in a survival situation.
II. Halazone tablets- Follow the manufacturer's directions. Shelf life is 2-5 years.
III. 2% solution IODINE- Any properly stocked first aide/survival kit/away bag will have iodine in a 2% solution. Use at 12 drops per gallon for CLEAR water or 24 drops per gallon for cloudy water. It will taste odd but is mostly safe to drink.
IV. Bleach- Bleach must contain hypochlorite in 5.25% solution. If the water is clear use 8 drops per gallon (4.5 liters). If cloudy use 16 drops per gallon. Shake WELL!! MUST STAND FOR AT LEAST 30 MINS. It will taste and smell like chlorine. If you csnnot smell and taste the chlorine add another 8 to 16 drops. Wait 15 mins. If you still cannot smell and taste chlorine assume your bleach is out of date and DO NOT drink the water.
Another way is to build your OWN water filter system. This will NOT PURIFY your water, but it will make it safer to drink as opposed to no treatment of the water at all. h
HOW MUCH TO STORE?
Okay, this varies but a good measure is you will NOT be stagnant in survival mode. 1 1/2 to 3 gallons per DAY per PERSON. (this does not include water for cooking and washing). Small children may not consume all of their ration so this can go on washing/cooking or to the adult/s working harder.
Hot water heaters and toilets can be drained for potable water (purify of course).
Metal containers- DO NOT store chlorine treated water in these. bleach is corrosive to metal.
Plastic jugs- Be sure to rinse and clean ALL traces of fats if you are using MILK jugs. NO WATER BEDS. Keep away from chemicals as most chemicals leach into and can melt plastics.
Here is a LINK to some collapsible water storage containers.
Finally, here is a calculation per person per month.
28 gallons per person for drinking and hygiene.
6 months = 168 gallons per person
A family of three= 504 gallons of water for drinking and hygiene for 6 months.