Boiling

Boiling water inactivates or kills microorganisms that live in water at room temperature.

Near sea level, boil the water for at least 1 minute. At altitudes greater than a kilometer or a mile, boil the water for at least 3 minutes. Boiling water inactivates or kills microorganisms that live in water at room temperature.

Boiled water tastes flat. To improve the taste, let it stand for a while or aerate it by pouring it back and forth from one container to another. You can also add a pinch of salt per quart.

When it is not possible or practical to boil water, use chemical disinfection.

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