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Approximately 70% of Earth is covered in water. Good ole H2O!
It is certainly one of the most important factors of self-sufficiency and emergency preparedness, especially with the necessity of hydration to human existence. Yet, we take it for granted on so many levels.
Our bodies are made up of about the same percentage of water as our planet and it affects almost every system we have, especially brain function. The Mayo Clinic says, "Water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues. Lack of water can lead to dehydration, a condition that occurs when you don't have enough water in your body to carry out normal functions. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired." It is suggested that we drink up to three liters of beverage per day preferably water.
However, the quality of that water is also of concern to our families. There are several factors to consider when choosing water filtration and purification methods for your preparedness needs, including know what compounds should be filtered.

What can be filtered out?

According to the specific situation, there could be a number of contaminants in the water available on your property. Those include recognizable items, such as chlorine, radon, chloroform, and the e-coli bacteria. Along with a many others, filters can also remove nitrates, nitrites, dust, silt, sediment and heavy metals, like lead, mercury, aluminum, chromium, cadmium, and copper. These contaminants can cause a number of issues like liver, kidney, and respiratory disorders.

Considerations

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Many types of filters and purifiers are on the market now from personal devices to take camping or whole-house models and everything in between.
There are factors of design to ponder including materials used, dimensions of the filter, output of clean water, and storage. The best materials for these products are BPA-free hard plastics and stainless steel. When considering the dimensions needed, determine where the system will be used. Evaluating the amount of output and availability of storage while comparing that to the estimated use will also help in the process of deciding the best filtration methods and products for your clean water needs.
Ensuring your family has clean drinking water especially during an emergency situation is essential to survival.

Filtering

Another great article, which includes commercially available filters:
http://www.backwoodshome.com/articles2/lewis144.html