Is it safe to drink out of a river?

Answer 1

No. If you have a good knowledge of the source of water-flow, then a river may be an acceptable source of clean water. River water is unsafe for many reasons. Often river water will sit in pools, or come from may types of sewage run-off. The sources of water are often contaminated. River water is also contaminated with other bacteria as well as animal excrement. It is recommended to filter, then boil river water before drinking. Running water in general should be safer than standing water, but certain elements can also taint this water.