Top Tips for Filtering Water from Ice and Snow?

Collecting and Melting Ice and Snow

When collecting ice and snow, it’s essential to avoid areas contaminated with pollutants like fuel, pesticides, or animal waste. Collect snow from a clean area, ideally from a snowbank that has not been contaminated. For ice, look for transparent ice sheets, as colored ice may be contaminated. When collecting ice, use a knife or a tool to scoop it up, taking care not to contaminate the ice with your hands. A good rule of thumb is to collect at least a gallon of snow or ice to melt down.

Melting Ice and Snow

There are several ways to melt ice and snow, including using a portable stove, a solar still, or even your body heat. When using a portable stove, make sure to use a clean pot and water filter to prevent contamination. A solar still is a simple and effective way to melt ice and snow, requiring only a clear plastic bag, a rock, and a hole in the ground. To make one, place the rock in the center of the hole and drape the plastic bag over it, weighing down the center with the rock. Place a small amount of snow or ice in the center of the bag, and as the sun heats the plastic, the water will melt and collect in the center of the bag.

Purifying the Water

Once the ice and snow have melted, it’s essential to purify the water using a reliable water filter or purification tablets. The Sawyer Mini is a popular and effective option, capable of filtering out 99.9999% of bacteria, viruses, and contaminants. LifeStraw is another reliable option, which can filter out 99.99% of bacteria and parasites. If you don’t have access to a water filter, you can use solar disinfection (SODIS) by placing the water in a clear plastic bottle and leaving it in direct sunlight for at least six hours. This method can kill many types of bacteria and viruses, making the water safe to drink.