How do you purify drinking water by boiling?

Boiling water is an effective method for purifying drinking water by eliminating harmful bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present. Here are the steps involved in purifying drinking water by boiling:

1. Bring Water to a Boil:

- Fill a clean pot or kettle with the water you want to purify.

- Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a full boil.

2. Maintain Boiling:

- Once the water starts boiling, let it continue boiling for at least 1 minute. This is sufficient time to kill most bacteria and viruses.

- At higher altitudes (above 6,562 feet or 2,000 meters), boiling water for 3 minutes is recommended.

3. Cool and Store:

- After boiling, remove the pot from the heat source and let the water cool down naturally.

- Once the water has cooled, transfer it to a clean, airtight container.

- Store the boiled water in the refrigerator or a cool place.

By following these steps, you can effectively purify drinking water by boiling and ensure it is safe for consumption. Boiling is a reliable and simple method for removing harmful microorganisms from water, making it suitable for drinking, cooking, and other purposes.