How can water be made safe to drink?

When it comes to making water safe to drink, boiling is one of the most effective methods. Boiling water for 10 minutes is particularly reliable because it eliminates pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, making the water safe for consumption. The reasoning behind the duration relates to altitude; at higher elevations, water boils at a lower temperature, so a longer boiling time helps ensure that any harmful microorganisms are effectively killed.

While options involving shorter boiling times, such as 2 or 5 minutes, can also reduce some risks, they may not be sufficient in all circumstances, especially if pathogens like Giardia or certain viruses are present in high concentrations. In addition, filtering with a cloth might remove larger particles but does not effectively address microbial contamination, which makes boiling a preferred method for ensuring safety. Boiling for 10 minutes provides a substantial margin for safety, regardless of external conditions.