What is the correct method for treating water with bleach to ensure it is safe to drink?

Treating water with bleach to ensure it is safe to drink is based on specific guidelines provided by health organizations, which emphasize the correct ratio to eliminate pathogens effectively while ensuring safety for human consumption. The correct method involves using 1/16 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of clear water. This dilution is effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may be present in the water, thus making it safe for drinking.

Using this specific amount balances efficacy in pathogen reduction with safety, as a higher concentration could introduce harmful levels of chlorine. It’s important to use unscented bleach that contains 5-6% sodium hypochlorite for this purpose. Furthermore, it is recommended to let the water sit for at least 30 minutes after treatment to ensure that the bleach has had adequate time to disinfect the water.

The other amounts of bleach listed in the choices either exceed this recommended concentration or are not sufficient to achieve effective disinfection, which could jeopardize the safety of the water being treated.