Everyone needs to have access to safe drinking water. This is an essential step in promoting public health. Contaminated water is linked to diseases like cholera, dysentery, diarrhoea, and typhoid. These diseases can be expensive to treat and may even lead to death. To make sure you always consume safe drinking water, you should take note of the following tips.
- Use a Water Testing Kit
Many governments around the world guarantee citizens the right to clean and safe drinking water. However, many water sources that are claimed to be safe could easily be contaminated. It is especially worth noting that many pipes in Western countries were laid more than 50 years ago, meaning they may not be able to safely deliver water to your home. If you suspect that your water may contain impurities, you should consider using a water testing kit.
One major contaminant you should test for is lead. This element has been used in construction for many years, and it has been proven to be extremely harmful to humans when ingested. Other materials you should test for include copper, ammonia, arsenic, and parasitic kit.
- Dispose of Contaminated Harmful Materials Properly
We deal with contaminated materials every day, and disposing of them properly is essential. You should avoid dumping such waste on the ground as it could sip into the ground and contaminate water sources. One element you should be careful with is engine oil or motor oil. One litre of this oil can contaminate a million litres of water, so it is essential to handle it properly. In many cases, you will be able to dispose of the material in a hazardous waste collection centre. Other elements you should handle carefully include pesticides, paint and paint cans, mothballs, medicine, and household cleaners.
- Boil Your Water
Boiling water is a great way of eliminating bacteria and other contaminants in water. It is especially useful for people living in places that have been struck by natural disasters. If the water seems cloudy, you should first filter it with a clean cloth or paper towel. You can then boil it for about a minute. You can then let the water settle, after which you will need to store it in sealed and sanitized containers.
- Use Water Purification Tablets or Chemicals
This is another great way of killing pathogens in water. Given the portable and durable nature of these chemicals, you can use them at any place and after many years. Water purification tablets are usually used by backpackers and other outdoor enthusiasts. This is because such individuals need to clean water from natural sources. The tablets are also essential for people living in emergencies like hurricanes.
Conclusion
There are many ways of ensuring that your water sources are safe. You can start by testing for common contaminants like lead and arsenic. This can easily be done with a water testing kit. You should also consider boiling water or using water purification tablets. Another essential tip is to dispose of harmful materials safely.
