Cheat sheet: Water

1. 1Read map and terrain – Look for streams, springs, lakes and valley floors on the map.
2. 2Rank sources by risk – Prefer, in this order: precipitation collected from clean surfaces, springs at their outlet, flowing water, standing water.
3. 3Check the surroundings – Check what lies upstream: settlements, grazing livestock, roads, industry, mining, fields.
4. 4Collect cleanly – Collect from the clearest spot without stirring up sediment, and keep containers for raw and treated water separate.

Danger: Water downstream of industry, mining, landfills, intensive agriculture, roads or from flood water can contain chemicals that no field method reliably removes. Choose another source.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-finding-sources

1. 1Rig the surface – Rig the tarp or sheet so it slopes towards one corner or the centre.
2. 2Position the container – Place a clean, food-grade container under the outflow; a cloth at the inlet keeps out leaves and insects.
3. 3Discard the first flush – Let the first minutes of rain run off without collecting them, or rinse the surface with clean water beforehand.
4. 4Treat and cover – Cover the container and disinfect the water before drinking, for example by boiling or chlorination.

Danger: Do not use collecting surfaces or containers that may release chemicals, fuel, wood preservatives or heavy metals.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-rain-collection

1. 1Select snow or ice – Take clean, undiscoloured snow away from paths, campsites and animal tracks, or clear ice.
2. 2Start with water – If possible, put a little water in the pot before adding snow, and set up the stove outdoors, sheltered from the wind.
3. 3Add gradually – Add snow in small portions and stir rather than filling the pot all at once.
4. 4Disinfect – Bring the meltwater to a rolling boil (see Boiling) or disinfect it by another suitable method.
5. 5Protect against refreezing – Keep water close to the body or insulated; store bottles upside down, since water freezes from the top.

Danger: Never run a stove inside a tent, snow cave or enclosed shelter – carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal without warning.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-snow-ice

1. 1Plan water in advance – Before the trip, identify reliable water points from current sources (authorities, park administration, local people).
2. 2Leave your route – Leave your route and return time with a reliable person.
3. 3Reduce loss – Move in the cooler morning and evening hours, rest in the shade during the midday heat and wear covering, airy clothing and a hat.
4. 4Stay with a broken-down vehicle – A vehicle is easier to find than a person and provides shade.
5. 5Search for water with realistic expectations – Water is most likely to collect on the outside of bends in dry riverbeds, at the foot of cliffs and in shaded rock hollows.

Danger: Plan so that you can safely reach your destination or a known, reliable water point with the water you carry – with a reserve. Dried-up water points are common in arid regions.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-arid-regions

1. 1Check real sources first – First check whether rainwater, snow or a source can be reached with reasonable effort.
2. 2Wipe up dew – In the early morning, soak up dew from grass or clean surfaces with a clean cloth and wring it into a container.
3. 3Plant bags only on plants known to be non-toxic – Put a clean, clear bag over a leafy, sunlit branch, seal the opening tightly and let one corner hang lower so water collects there.
4. 4Collect and treat – Pour the water off carefully without plant material.

Danger: Use plant bags only on plants reliably known to be non-toxic. Toxins can get into the collected water. This atlas deliberately does not provide plant identification.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-plants-dew-limits

1. 1Read the terrain – Look for the outside of a bend, the lowest point of the bed or spots with green vegetation and dark, damp sand.
2. 2Check the weather – Before digging, check whether rain or thunderstorms are possible upstream and fix an escape route to high ground.
3. 3Dig a test hole – Dig a hole until the ground becomes clearly damp.
4. 4Let it seep in – Wait until water collects in the hole and suspended matter settles.
5. 5Scoop carefully – Scoop off the upper, clearest water without stirring up the bottom, and pour it through a cloth into a raw-water container.
6. 6Treat – Disinfect the water: boil it, or filter and then disinfect chemically.

Danger: Dry riverbeds can fill with water within minutes when it rains far upstream – even under a blue sky locally. Never camp or sleep in the riverbed; at the sound of rushing water, rising water or thunderstorms, get to higher ground immediately.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-dry-riverbed-digging

1. 1Choose the spot – Choose a level, sandy or gravelly spot a few paces from the water, away from animal trails and well away from latrines.
2. 2Dig the hole – Dig until water seeps in from below or the sides.
3. 3Discard the first water – Scoop out the first, cloudy water and let the pit refill.
4. 4Scoop – Scoop without stirring up and pour through a cloth into a raw-water container.
5. 5Disinfect – Boil the water or use a filter followed by chemical disinfection.

Danger: Clear seep water is not automatically drinkable: bacteria, viruses and dissolved substances can pass through the soil. Always disinfect afterwards.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-seep-well

1. 1Check the surroundings – Check what lies above: pastures, huts, paths, roads, mining.
2. 2Clear the outlet – Carefully remove leaves and loose soil right at the outlet.
3. 3Insert a spout – Press a clean large leaf, a piece of bark or a tube into the outlet so that the water runs off it in a stream.
4. 4Fill – Hold the raw-water container under the stream without touching the ground or spout with the opening.
5. 5Treat – Disinfect the water before drinking it. Leave the site as you found it.

Caution: Even clear, cold spring water can be contaminated by surface water, animals or people above. Disinfect before drinking.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-spring-capture

1. 1Rain first – Rig tarps or sheets at every chance of rain and catch water in clean containers.
2. 2Streams above the tide line – Follow streams inland beyond the marks of the highest tide (driftwood, seaweed line) and collect there.
3. 3Dig behind the dunes – If neither exists, dig in a hollow behind the first row of dunes until water seeps in. Skim only the top few centimetres and check the…
4. 4Treat – Disinfect any fresh water found.
5. 5Limit loss – Seek shade, move exertion to cool times and do not ‘stretch’ supplies with seawater.

Danger: Never drink seawater, not even in small amounts or mixed. It worsens the body's water shortage.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-coast-freshwater

1. 1Plan water points – Mark springs, streams and huts on the map.
2. 2Choose the collection point – Prefer springs at the outlet or fast-flowing side streams above trails, huts and pastures.
3. 3Collect safely – Fill at a flat, stable spot on the bank.
4. 4Settle glacial water – Leave milky glacial water to stand in a vessel and pour off the clearer upper layer before filtering or disinfecting it.
5. 5Treat – Filter and disinfect chemically, treat with UV (only with clear water) or boil.

Danger: Glaciers and glacier snouts are dangerous: crevasses, icefall and sudden water outbursts. Do not go onto glaciers or under ice overhangs to get water.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-mountain-glacial-streams

1. 1Get permission – Ask the forest owner or the forester before you drill into a tree, and explain that you will only make one small hole and close it again.
2. 2Find the right time – The sap only flows for a few weeks in early spring, roughly in March and April, when it still freezes at night and is mild during the day …
3. 3Recognise the birch reliably – In early spring the birch has no leaves yet, so you recognise it by its trunk: white bark with dark marks and patches running crosswise…
4. 4Choose a strong tree – Choose a healthy tree with a trunk at least about 25 centimetres in diameter – roughly as wide as a large plate.
5. 5Drill one small hole – At knee to hip height, use a clean hand drill to make a hole about 1 centimetre in diameter, angled slightly upwards so the sap runs out.
6. 6Fit the spout and bottle – Push a clean tube or a carved little wooden channel firmly into the hole so that it points slightly downwards.
7. 7Close the hole – After at most one day, or as soon as you have enough, take off the tube and bottle.
8. 8Cool, check, drink quickly – Fresh birch sap is clear, almost like water, and tastes slightly sweet.

Caution: Trees belong to the forest owner. In Austria the Forest Act allows entering the forest for recreation, but not damaging trees; in Germany the Federal Nature Conservation Act forbids damaging wild plants without reasonable cause. So only drill with the owner's permission – except in a genuine emergency when your life is at stake.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-birch-sap

1. 1Fill and let stand – Pour the raw water into a clean container and let it stand undisturbed until sediment has formed.
2. 2Decant carefully – Pour or scoop off the clear water from the top without stirring up the sediment.
3. 3Pour through cloth or filter paper – Pour the decanted water through a clean, folded cotton cloth or a coffee filter into a second clean container.
4. 4Disinfect – Then disinfect the clarified water, e.g. by boiling, chlorination or a suitable filter followed by disinfection.

Danger: Clarified water is not ready to drink. Settling and cloth filters do not reliably retain bacteria, viruses or most protozoa – always disinfect afterwards.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-sedimentation-prefilter

1. 1Pre-clarify cloudy water – If the water is cloudy, let it settle or pour it through a clean cloth or coffee filter.
2. 2Bring to a rolling boil – Heat the water until it boils vigorously and continuously – not just a few bubbles on the bottom.
3. 3Keep it boiling – Following CDC guidance, keep the water at a rolling boil for at least 1 minute; above about 2,000 m (6,500 ft), for at least 3 minutes.
4. 4Let it cool covered – Let the water cool in the covered vessel.
5. 5Store cleanly – Pour the cooled water into a clean, closable container.

Danger: Never operate stoves or fires inside a tent, vehicle, shelter or indoors without adequate ventilation – carbon monoxide and fire hazard.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-boiling

1. 1Clarify the water – Let cloudy water settle and pour it through a clean cloth or coffee filter.
2. 2Measure the volume – Determine the volume of water precisely – the dose depends on the volume.
3. 3Dose according to instructions – Dose exactly according to the manufacturer or, for bleach, the official public-health instructions.
4. 4Mix and wet the threads – Close the container, shake it and let some water run over the threads and the rim of the lid so they are disinfected too.
5. 5Wait for the contact time – Wait at least 30 minutes or the longer time stated by the manufacturer.
6. 6Check the smell – After the contact time a slight chlorine smell should be noticeable.

Danger: Chlorine at normal doses does not reliably act against Cryptosporidium and only partly against Giardia. If suspected (e.g. surface water with grazing livestock), boil or use a suitable filter first.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-chlorine

1. 1Clarify the water – Let cloudy water settle and pour it through a cloth or coffee filter.
2. 2Dose exactly – Add the tablet or activated drops to the matching volume of water exactly as the manufacturer specifies.
3. 3Mix and wet the threads – Close the container, shake it and wet the threads and the rim of the lid with the treated water.
4. 4Wait for the full contact time – Wait for the contact time specified by the manufacturer.

Danger: The contact time for Cryptosporidium is much longer than for bacteria and viruses. Drink only after the full time stated by the manufacturer – use the longer figure for cold or cloudy water.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-chlorine-dioxide

1. 1Ensure clarity – Let cloudy water settle and pre-filter it. For SODIS: stand the filled bottle on a newspaper headline and look down through it; if the text…
2. 2Use a UV-C device – Fill the volume specified by the manufacturer into a vessel with a suitable opening, immerse the lamp and move it for the stated duration…
3. 3SODIS: fill bottles – Fill clear, undamaged PET bottles of at most 2 litres, close them and remove labels.
4. 4SODIS: lay in the sun – Lay the bottles flat on a reflective surface (e.g. corrugated metal or an emergency blanket) in full sun – 6 hours in sunshine, two…
5. 5Drink from the bottle – Drink the water straight from the bottle or pour it into a clean vessel; do not mix it with raw water.

Danger: UV works only in clear water. Turbidity shades pathogens – water may look treated and still be inadequately disinfected. If in doubt, pre-clarify or choose another method.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-uv-sodis

1. 1Inspect the filter – Check the housing, seals and connections for cracks and make sure the filter has never frozen.
2. 2Pre-clarify raw water – Collect the clearest water possible and pour cloudy water through a cloth or let it settle first.
3. 3Filter – Filter according to the manufacturer's instructions (squeeze, suction, gravity or pump) into a clean container.
4. 4Post-treat if viruses are a risk – If viruses are likely, additionally disinfect the filtrate with chlorine or chlorine dioxide or boil it.
5. 5Backflush and dry – Backflush the filter regularly with clean water and store it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Danger: Typical hollow-fibre filters (0.1–0.2 µm) do not reliably retain viruses. For water with human influence, additionally disinfect chemically or boil.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-hollow-fiber

1. 1Inspect the element – Check the ceramic element and the seals for cracks, chips and correct fit.
2. 2Pre-clarify – Let cloudy water settle or pour it through a cloth to protect the ceramic.
3. 3Filter – Pump or gravity-filter according to the instructions into a clean container.
4. 4Disinfect if required – If viruses are a concern, disinfect the filtrate chemically or boil it.
5. 5Clean and check wear – Scrub the surface according to the instructions when flow drops, and check the wall thickness with the supplied gauge, if provided.

Danger: A cracked or chipped element lets pathogens through. Inspect after any drop and before each use; replace if in doubt.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-ceramic-filter

1. 1Settle microbiological safety – Disinfect the water beforehand or plan disinfection afterwards.
2. 2Pass through the cartridge – Pass the water slowly through the cartridge according to the manufacturer's instructions; a longer contact time improves adsorption.
3. 3Replace in time – Track volume or time of use and replace the cartridge as specified – not only when the water starts tasting bad.

Danger: Activated carbon does not make water germ-free. Disinfect water before or after the activated carbon.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-activated-carbon

1. 1Prepare the housing – Cut the bottom off a clean PET bottle, turn it upside down and tie a cloth over the opening as the outlet.
2. 2Add the layers – Fill from the bottom up: gravel, coarse sand, fine sand.
3. 3Flush – Pour water through until the filtrate is no longer cloudy from washed-out sand.
4. 4Filter slowly – Pour the raw water in slowly and collect the filtrate in a clean container.
5. 5Disinfect – Boil the filtrate or disinfect it chemically according to instructions.

Danger: This filter does not make water drinkable. Clear-looking filtrate can contain bacteria, viruses and protozoa – always disinfect afterwards.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-improvised-sand-filter

1. 1Choose the site – Choose a sunny spot with moist ground, e.g. in a hollow.
2. 2Dig the pit – Dig a pit about one metre across and place the clean collecting vessel in the centre of the bottom.
3. 3Add moisture – Pour seawater or brackish water into the pit around the vessel – not into it.
4. 4Lay and seal the sheet – Lay the sheet over the pit and seal the edges all round with soil.
5. 5Harvest without opening – Open the sheet as rarely as possible, since every opening lets vapour escape.

Danger: The yield of a solar still is usually small and uncertain. Do not plan on it as your only water supply; digging in the midday heat can cost more sweat than the still produces.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-solar-still

1. 1Check suitability – Clarify beforehand whether anyone in the group is pregnant, breastfeeding, or has thyroid disease or an iodine allergy.
2. 2Clarify the water – Let cloudy water settle and pour it through a cloth.
3. 3Dose according to instructions – Dose exactly for the known volume according to the manufacturer.
4. 4Wet the threads – Close, shake, let some water run over the threads and the lid rim.
5. 5Wait for the contact time – Wait the full contact time stated by the manufacturer; for cold water the extended time.
6. 6Improve the taste only afterwards – Add neutraliser tablets, vitamin C or drink powders only after the contact time – before that they interfere with disinfection.

Danger: In pregnancy, breastfeeding, thyroid disease or iodine allergy, use iodine only after consulting a doctor; read the manufacturer's notes on contraindications and maximum duration carefully.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-iodine

1. 1Inspect the element – Check filter, hoses and seals for cracks and frost damage; carry out the manufacturer's integrity test if there is one.
2. 2Fill raw water – Fill the raw-water bag from the clearest part of the source.
3. 3Hang it – Hang the bag high, lead the outlet into the clean container and open the clamp.
4. 4Post-treat where needed – Where viruses are a risk, disinfect the filtered water chemically per manufacturer or boil it.
5. 5Backflush and dry – After use, backflush per manufacturer, empty the raw side and let everything dry separately.

Danger: Common hollow-fibre and ceramic elements do not reliably retain viruses. Near settlements, with many people upstream, or when travelling in regions with uncertain sanitation, additionally disinfect chemically or boil.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-gravity-filter

1. 1Inspect – Check element, seals and hoses for cracks; identify intake and outlet sides clearly.
2. 2Draw without mud – Place the intake hose with pre-filter and float in the clearest part of the water, not on the bottom.
3. 3Pump steadily – Hold the outlet in the clean container and pump calmly and evenly.
4. 4Post-disinfect if needed – Where viruses are a risk, treat the filtered water chemically per manufacturer or boil it.
5. 5Clean and pack – Clean the element per manufacturer, pack hoses separately, store dry and frost-free.

Danger: Most pump filters do not reliably retain viruses. Where viruses are expected, disinfect chemically or boil after filtering – unless the model is explicitly rated for viruses.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-pump-filter

1. 1Ensure clarity – Use only clear water; let cloudy water settle and pour it through a coffee filter or cloth, or pre-filter it.
2. 2Correct volume – Fill exactly the volume the device is designed for into a clean wide-mouth bottle.
3. 3Irradiate and move – Switch on, immerse and stir or swirl as instructed until the cycle is complete.
4. 4Check the success indicator – Only with a success indicator does the water count as treated.
5. 5Drink cleanly – Drink from a clean cup or wipe the threads dry beforehand; do not top up with raw water.

Danger: Turbidity and particles shield pathogens from UV light. Treat only clear water; clarify or filter cloudy water first.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-uv-pen

1. 1Assess the source – Clear or cloudy?
2. 2Clarify – Let it settle, pour it through cloth or a coffee filter, use a seep well or sand filter if appropriate.
3. 3Remove or kill pathogens – Boil – or filter and then disinfect chemically if viruses are expected.
4. 4Optional: taste – Use activated carbon or flavourings only after disinfection is complete.
5. 5Store cleanly – Fill into clean, labelled containers, cover and draw with clean cups.

Danger: No combination of clarifying, filtering, boiling and disinfecting reliably makes chemically contaminated water safe. If suspected, use another source or officially supplied water.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-treatment-chain

1. 1Choose a measure – Take a bottle or measuring jug with a printed volume.
2. 2Fill step by step – Fill the container portion by portion and make a mark on the outside after each portion.
3. 3Label – Write the total volume and the marks clearly on the container.
4. 4Dose according to instructions – Calculate the dose from the manufacturer's or authority's instructions for the measured volume and note it on the container if useful.

Caution: Always take doses from the manufacturer's or authority's instructions. Measuring does not replace the instructions; it makes them usable.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-volume-measuring

1. 1Complete the contact time – Wait for the full contact time of the disinfectant, or let boiled water cool covered.
2. 2Pour back and forth – Pour boiled water back and forth several times between two clean containers, or shake the half-filled bottle.
3. 3Let it stand – Let chlorinated water stand covered but not airtight shortly before drinking – only if it will be drunk soon.
4. 4Additives only now – Now use neutraliser, a pinch of vitamin C powder, drink powder or an activated-carbon filter.

Caution: Use vitamin C, neutralisers, drink powders or activated carbon only after the full contact time – before that they weaken disinfection.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-taste-improvement

1. 1Prepare – Read the product's instructions.
2. 2Add and stir – Add the agent as instructed.
3. 3Let it settle – Leave the vessel undisturbed until the flocs have collected at the bottom and the water above is clear.
4. 4Decant – Carefully pour the clear water through a clean cloth into a second vessel without stirring up the sediment.
5. 5Disinfect – Disinfect the clarified water by boiling or chemically – unless the product is explicitly an approved combined coagulant-disinfectant and…

Danger: Clarified water is not automatically free of germs. After coagulation alone, always disinfect – boil or disinfect chemically.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-coagulation-flocculation

1. 1Set up – Fill the pot only partly with salt water and place a small heat-resistant collecting vessel inside so that it cannot tip over and no salt…
2. 2Invert the lid – Place the lid upside down so that its lowest point is above the collecting vessel.
3. 3Heat gently – Heat so that the water simmers but does not boil vigorously – otherwise salt water splashes into the collecting vessel.
4. 4Check – Let the condensate cool and taste a tiny amount: if it tastes salty, salt water has splashed in – distil again.
5. 5Store cleanly – Pour the distillate into a clean container.

Danger: Do not drink seawater, not even in small amounts or mixed with fresh water: it draws water from the body and makes the deficit worse.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-stovetop-distillation

1. 1Choose containers – Use food-grade, tightly closable containers, ideally with a narrow opening or a tap.
2. 2Clean – Wash containers with detergent and clean water and rinse thoroughly.
3. 3Fill hygienically – Fill in treated water without touching the inside or the threads with your fingers, and close immediately.
4. 4Label and store – Label contents and date and store cool, dark and away from chemicals and fuels.
5. 5Rotate regularly – Replace self-filled stocks as recommended by your public authority; bottled water according to its best-before date.

Danger: Never use containers that held chemicals, fuel or cleaners – residues cannot be reliably removed.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-storage-containers

1. 1Wash hands – Wash your hands with soap before filling treated water, preparing food or handling drinking vessels – and always after using the toilet.
2. 2Separate raw and drinking water – Use separate, clearly marked vessels for raw and treated water.
3. 3Clean containers mechanically – Wash containers with warm water and soap or detergent and scrub the inner walls, lids, threads and taps with a brush.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly – Rinse several times with safe water until no soap residue remains.
5. 5Disinfect if needed – After contamination, after long storage or before first use, containers can be disinfected with a diluted bleach solution.
6. 6Dry and store closed – Let containers dry open and upside down in a clean place, then close them.

Danger: Never mix bleach with other cleaners, especially those containing acids or ammonia – toxic gases can form. Use only unscented bleach without additives and follow the quantities given by the public-health authority.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-hygiene-containers

1. 1Plan the amount – Determine how much is needed until the next safe source, plus a reserve – and whether you can carry the weight.
2. 2Split across containers – Spread the water across several containers; mark raw water clearly differently from drinking water.
3. 3Pack close to the body – Put heavy containers in the backpack close to the back and centred; check lids, protect containers from punctures.
4. 4Protect from heat and frost – In summer carry in shade or inside the pack; in winter insulated and close to the body; in frost store bottles upside down so the lid does…
5. 5Transfer cleanly – When transferring, do not touch openings and do not hold raw-water containers against drinking bottles.

Danger: Never use containers that held fuels, cleaners or other chemicals – not even after rinsing.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-carrying-transport

1. 1Drink to a plan – Drink regularly during breaks, even without thirst.
2. 2Fill warm – In the morning, fill insulated bottles with warm (not boiling) water or tea.
3. 3Carry close to the body – Carry a bottle in an inside pocket or insulated in the pack.
4. 4Protect at night – Take the water bottle and any filter into the sleeping bag at night, or store the bottle insulated and upside down so the lid freezes less…
5. 5Melt in good time – If snow must be melted, melt enough in the evening for the night and morning.

Caution: Do not eat snow or ice in larger amounts: it chills the body and is untreated when unmelted. Melt snow and disinfect the water if its origin is uncertain.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-cold-weather-hydration

1. 1Get informed – Listen to the radio, warning apps, loudspeaker announcements and notices about where and when water is distributed and what it is intended…
2. 2Prepare containers – Clean containers beforehand and bring matching lids.
3. 3Fill hygienically – Keep the opening away from the tap and do not touch the inside or the lid.
4. 4Carry and share – Transport the water with a trolley or backpack and help neighbours who cannot carry it themselves.
5. 5Store cool and use promptly – Store the water cool and dark and use it promptly.

Caution: Follow the instructions at the distribution point: sometimes the water is intended only for boiling or only for hygiene. Ask if in doubt.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-distribution-points

1. 1Plan stocks – Plan drinking-water stocks according to the guidance of your public authority.
2. 2Limit water loss – Shift exertion to cooler times of day, stay in the shade, wear covering, airy clothing and a hat.
3. 3Watch for warning signs – Watch for thirst, dark and infrequent urine, headache, fatigue and dizziness.

Danger: Confusion, severe dizziness, very little urine or reduced consciousness can indicate serious dehydration or heat illness – call the emergency number for medical help.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-needs

1. 1Limit water loss – Reduce sweat loss: shade, rest, covering clothing.
2. 2Collect fresh water – Catch every rain shower with tarps, sheets and containers.
3. 3Desalinate only with suitable methods – Use distillation (solar still or heat source) or a purpose-built desalination device according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Danger: Do not drink seawater, not even in small amounts or mixed with fresh water to stretch supplies.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-seawater

1. 1Assess the source – Ask: Is the water cloudy?
2. 2Clarify first – Reduce turbidity by settling and pre-filtering before you disinfect or filter.
3. 3Then disinfect deliberately – Choose a method or combination that covers bacteria, viruses and protozoa – e.g. boiling, or a filter plus chemical disinfection.
4. 4Store cleanly – Keep treated water in clean, closed containers.

Danger: If chemical contamination is suspected (flooding, industry, mining, agriculture) there is no reliable field treatment. Use another source or officially supplied water and follow the authorities' instructions.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-treatment-mistakes

1. 1Read the surroundings – Look upstream and around the source for industry, mining, spoil heaps, landfills, roads, railways, fuel stations, intensively farmed…
2. 2Warning signs at the water – An oily or iridescent film, a smell of fuel or chemicals, unusual colouring, foam, dead fish or animals and barren banks are reasons to…
3. 3Choose another source – If in doubt, do not treat – switch: stored supplies, bottled water, officially supplied water, rainwater from clean surfaces, or a source…
4. 4Follow the authorities – In disasters, water utilities and authorities state whether tap water must be boiled or must not be used at all.

Danger: There is no simple field method that reliably removes chemicals. Boiling can even concentrate some substances as water evaporates.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-chemical-contamination

1. 1Build a stock – Build a drinking-water stock according to your authority's guidance.
2. 2Follow warnings – Keep a battery or crank radio and warning apps ready.
3. 3Fill before the event – If an event is forecast (storm, flood), fill clean, food-grade containers with tap water while it is still considered safe.
4. 4Allocate the stock by purpose – Use safe water first for drinking and preparing food; use utility water for flushing toilets and rough cleaning.
5. 5Treat if necessary – If no safe water is available and chemicals are not a concern, clarify cloudy water first, then boil it or disinfect chemically according…
6. 6After restoration – Follow the utility's instructions on flushing pipes after a boil-water notice is lifted.

Danger: Flood water usually contains sewage, fuels and chemicals. Do not drink it or use it for brushing teeth or preparing food, and avoid contact where possible.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-household-emergency

1. 1Close the main valve – When warned of contaminated water, close the main shut-off valve so that no contaminated water enters pipes and tank.
2. 2Drain the pipes – Open the highest tap in the house to let air in, and catch the water at the lowest tap in clean containers.
3. 3Switch off the heater – Switch off power or gas to the water heater and let the water cool.
4. 4Drain the heater – Close the cold inlet at the heater, open a hot tap to let air in and drain the water from the drain valve.
5. 5Treat if in doubt – If the supply may already have been contaminated, boil the water or disinfect it per official instructions before drinking.
6. 6Refill first, then heat – After restoration, fill and vent the tank completely before switching power or gas back on.

Danger: Water in the tank can be very hot – risk of scalding. Let it cool before draining.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-household-hidden-reserves

1. 1Read the notice carefully – Check via official channels which type of notice applies, for which area and for what the water may be used.
2. 2Boil for everything that goes in the mouth – Drinking water, brushing teeth, ice cubes, infant formula, washing fruit and vegetables eaten raw, and cooking: use boiled or bottled water.
3. 3Personal hygiene as advised – Showering and handwashing are usually possible as advised by the authority; do not swallow water, supervise small children closely.
4. 4Mind appliances – Discard ice from ice makers; treat appliances with a water connection as advised by the authority.
5. 5Flush after the notice is lifted – After the notice is lifted, flush the pipes as instructed by the utility, discard ice and replace filter cartridges if needed.

Danger: Pay attention to the type of notice: boil-water = boiling helps. ‘Do not drink’ or ‘do not use’ = boiling does not help and may concentrate substances – use only replacement water.

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1. 1Measure the stock – Record all containers with volume and contents (raw or treated) and note the total.
2. 2Estimate the time frame – Estimate when resupply or help is realistic, and plan with a reserve.
3. 3Set priorities – Drinking water first, then water for infant formula and medication, then cooking, then hygiene.
4. 4Share measurably – Give everyone a marked bottle and refill at fixed times – by need, not by who is loudest.
5. 5Reduce losses – Shade, rest in the heat, move work to cool hours, avoid alcohol, reduce salty foods when water is short.
6. 6Watch for warning signs – Dark urine, headache, dizziness and severe fatigue are warning signs: let those affected drink and prioritise resupply or help.

Danger: Drinking too little quickly leads to dangerous conditions, especially in heat and with exertion. Do not cut the drinking-water share; reduce losses instead. With confusion, severe weakness, impaired consciousness or no urine, call the local emergency number (112 in the EU).

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1. 1Define the tiers – Tier 1: drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, baby food, medication.
2. 2Separate the containers – Give each tier its own containers, label them clearly and store them in different places – drinking water cool, dark and clean.
3. 3Use utility water – Use bathtub, rain or pool water for flushing by pouring it straight into the toilet bowl.
4. 4Brief everyone – Explain to everyone in the household which water is for what.

Danger: Water from pools, hot tubs, waterbeds, heating systems, toilet bowls and aquariums is not drinking water and cannot be made safely drinkable at home. Use it at most for flushing the toilet.

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1. 1Find out the need – Ask your vet about your animal's usual daily water needs and how heat, food and activity affect them.
2. 2Include it in the stock – Store additional water for the animals for the same number of days as for the people, and keep it together with food and a bowl.
3. 3Control the sources – Keep animals away from puddles, flood water and waters with algal blooms on walks.
4. 4Pack for evacuation – Pack water, a folding bowl and food in the pet bag.

Danger: Water with an algal bloom (greenish, bluish or reddish streaks, scum, coloured mats) can be fatally poisonous to animals, especially dogs. Keep animals away and do not let them swim in or drink from it; seek veterinary help immediately if symptoms appear.

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1. 1Stop using it immediately – Stop using the well water for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth and food.
2. 2Secure replacement water – Use your stock, bottled water or official distribution points.
3. 3Contact the authority – Ask the public-health office or the competent body how disinfection and sampling should be done and which laboratories are available.
4. 4Restore properly – Have the pump and electrics checked and the well cleaned, disinfected and flushed according to instructions.
5. 5Have it tested – Resume using the water only when a water test clears it. Check again after any repeat flooding.

Danger: Do not touch or switch on the pump and electrics of a flooded well while they are wet or standing in water – risk of electric shock. Have them checked by professionals first.

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1. 1Divide the route into sections – Mark possible water points on the map: huts, fountains, springs, streams, villages.
2. 2Check the water points – Check current information on whether huts are open, fountains supply drinking water and streams carry water in that season – e.g. via huts…
3. 3Set carrying amounts – For each section, estimate time, heat and exertion and set a carrying amount with a reserve.
4. 4Plan treatment – Take a main method and a backup, for example a filter plus tablets.
5. 5Set a turnaround point – Decide when you will turn back or divert if a water point fails, and leave the plan with a trusted person.

Caution: Never set off assuming a single source will definitely have water. Carry enough reserve to turn back or reach the next reliable water point if a source is dry.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-route-planning

1. 1Look for signs – Look for green, blue-green, brownish or reddish colouring, streaks like spilled paint, scum, deposits along the shore or a musty smell.
2. 2Heed warnings – Heed bathing bans and authority notices at swimming spots and in apps or local media.
3. 3Avoid and switch – Do not drink, do not swim, keep animals on a lead.
4. 4Wash off contact – After accidental contact, rinse skin, fur and equipment with clean water.

Danger: Algal toxins are not destroyed by boiling and can even become more concentrated. Filters, tablets and UV do not reliably remove them either. Do not drink water suspected of an algal bloom.

survivebetter.com/en/explore/water/water-harmful-algal-blooms

1. 1Clarify needs in advance – Clarify with the paediatric or family practice which water is suitable for baby food and whether relatives have fluid restrictions or…
2. 2Reserve safe water – Set aside a separate, labelled stock of safe water for infants and the sick, e.g. unopened bottled water where authorities recommend it for…
3. 3Offer actively – Offer drinks to older and sick people regularly instead of waiting for them to express thirst.
4. 4Maintain hygiene – Clean bottles, teats and cups with safe water; wash hands before preparation.
5. 5Watch and get help – Watch urine output, behaviour and diarrhoea.

Danger: For infant formula, use only water that the authorities or health services recommend for babies. Under a boil-water notice this also applies to bottles. Do not use chemically disinfected water or water suspected of chemicals for infants without professional advice.

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