How long do you boil water to make it safe drink?

The amount of time you need to boil water to make it safe to drink depends on the altitude at which you are boiling it. At sea level, water boils at 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the boiling point of water decreases as altitude increases. For example, at 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level, water boils at 93 degrees Celsius (199 degrees Fahrenheit).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends boiling water for at least 1 minute at altitudes below 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) and for 3 minutes at altitudes above 2,000 meters (6,562 feet). This will kill most bacteria and viruses that may be present in the water.

If you are not sure of the altitude at which you are boiling water, it is best to err on the side of caution and boil the water for 3 minutes. This will ensure that the water is safe to drink regardless of your altitude.

Here are the steps for boiling water to make it safe to drink:

1. Fill a pot with the desired amount of water.

2. Place the pot on the stove and turn on the heat to high.

3. Bring the water to a boil.

4. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the water for the recommended amount of time (1 minute at altitudes below 2,000 meters or 3 minutes at altitudes above 2,000 meters).

5. Turn off the heat and allow the water to cool slightly.

6. Pour the water into a glass or other container and enjoy.