Water is a MUST on every trip. Even if sources of
water will be available along the route, water should
be packed. Water is more important than food for survival.
Humans' need at least 2 quarts of water per day; strenuous
activity or hot temperatures may require up to 2 gallons
of water per day. Without water, the body quickly begins
to lose its ability to perform important functions(actually,
most bodily functions fail without water).
Dehydration
The onset of Dehydration can be indicated by dizziness,
dry mouth, tingling in the arms and inability to walk.
It is also indicated by yellow colored urine. Eating salty
foods while dehydrated is quite harmful unless an adequate
water supply is available.
Water Impurities
Many contaminants such as herbicides, pesticides,
or fertilizers near farming areas, bacteria such as E.Coli,
Viruses and amoebas, and microscopic worms, parasites,
and protozoa can be found in natural water sources. For
this reason various means of water purification should
be carried at ALL times. One of the easiest methods of
water purification is to boil the water, which will destroy
bacteria and other live organic contaminants. Iodine tablets,
which are small and lightweight, making them a popular
choice, are another form of purification. These tablets
are useful only for occasional purification as the iodine
can build up in the body and cause harmful side effects.
One of the best methods of purification is the mechanical
water filtration system. This device mechanically purifies
the water, with a minimum of effort on the hikers part.
Remember to always take plenty of water to prevent dehydration
and other more unpleasant effects on your hiking and camping
trips.
