 Is it Safe to Drink?
British Columbia is blessed with abundant sources of some of the best drinking water in the world. Our glacier waters melt, running through mountain streams containing natural filters such as moss to weed out any foreign materials. Clean BC water has become a valuable resource for bottled water companies and residents alike.
While exploring the wilderness in BC it is seldom necessary to carry more than a couple of litres with you. You just need enough to reach your first watering hole- preferably a clear, swift-running stream. On a brisk hike with a moderately heavy pack it's a good idea to carry about a litre of water for every hour you hike.
Most people have heard about the need to treat and/or filter water in the wilderness. This is because of a parasite common to Western Canada called Giardia. Ingestion of this parasite can lead to the condition known as Beaver Fever. Beaver fever can cause diarrhea and other intestinal problems that can last for months. Not the way you want to remember your camping trip!
Fortunately, water treatment is very simple. Two general methods of water treatment are filtration and water tablets. Alternative methods include sterilizing devices using UV light or electrically charged brine. While some of these options sound complex, they are designed to be lightweight and user-friendly.
Water treatment tablets, while generally the most inexpensive option, usually take about 30 minutes to work. Tablets containing iodine shouldn't be used on a continuous basis.
Water purifiers using the brine method require batteries and also take about 30 minutes to be effective. These are nice because they are iodine free and very compact (think of a small flashlight).
 Zapping your water with UV light takes no time at all! Using a compact, battery powered, hand-held device, you can destroy waterborne microbes in seconds. Like using tablets or the brine method however, you may still find it necessary to run your water through a filter just to get the dirt out.
The most common method of water treatment for outdoor enthusiasts is filtration. There are many different types of filters appropriate for processing water at different volumes and speeds. Some filters require hand pumping some need only gravity. The best way to pick out the filter that's right for you is to decide how much water you hope to process in what amount of time. Today's filters often require only a couple minutes to give you clean, sterilized water.
Another method of water treatment is of course boiling. However, this is often a tedious and time-consuming method, requiring either an open fire (only in designated areas) or the use of precious fuel.
Having easy access to water is essential for any sport. Staying hydrated replenishes your energy and keeps you going harder, longer. Adventure is calling. Discover BC beyond the cities and dare to push the limits of life-experience. Go play outside. |
What's New: The Hyperflow Microfilter by MSR
MSR is a leading brand in mountaineering and outdoor equipment. It was founded initially to research the safety and integrity of climbing equipment and these values drive their products today. MSR equipment has been used in expeditions and search and rescue operations around the world. The MSR brand has won numerous awards for the quality of its products and has pioneered several important firsts in mountaineering equipment, including multi-fuel stoves and the use of long lasting lithium batteries in headlamps.
Alberni Outpost proudly carries many MSR products, including the MSR's lightweight Hyperflow pump. One end of this pump is attached by a hose to a floating pre-filter. The other end fixes to a wide-mouth bottle adapter (perfect for a stainless-steel rainforest bottle). Once you start pumping you can easily fill your 1 litre bottle in under a minute!
The Hyperflow weighs only 209 grams and it's simple to take apart and clean while you're in the field. It compacts into a convenient carrying case 7 inches long and 3.5 inches wide. Like all MSR products this filter comes with a lifetime warranty. It's ready to go when you are!
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What's Happening!: Upcoming Events at Alberni Outpost
April 19th 7:45AM - 4:30 PM Essential Kayaking Course
Tours Start!
Taste of Kayaking April 15, 22, 29
Woman's Only Taste of Kayaking April 23
Sunset Tour April 17, 24
Newcastle Lunch Tour April 18, 19, 25, 26
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