Quick Answer
Common water contaminants in outdoor survival include bacteria, viruses, and parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Chemical contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial pollutants may also be present. Identifying these contaminants requires a thorough analysis of the water sample.
Assessing Visual Contaminants
When searching for water sources in the wild, assess the visual appearance of the water before consumption. Look for signs of contamination such as oil slicks, algae blooms, or milky or discolored water. If the water appears stagnant or has a strong odor, it may be contaminated. Use a water filter or purification tablets as a precaution.
Laboratory Testing for Bacteria and Viruses
To identify bacteria and viruses in a water sample, send it to a laboratory for analysis using techniques such as culture growth or molecular testing. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using the Total Coliform Bacteria Test to detect bacteria in water samples. This test involves growing the bacteria in a nutrient-rich medium and observing the growth over a set period.
Chemical Contaminant Testing
Detecting chemical contaminants in water samples involves using techniques such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). These methods can identify heavy metals, pesticides, and other industrial pollutants. For example, the EPA recommends using the ICP-MS method to detect lead, mercury, and arsenic in water samples.
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