Though we often take clean water for granted, millions around the country are not so lucky, and that daily convenience is replaced by a deep longing for fresh, clean, convenient water. In an effort to help out, volunteers often travel thousands of miles to help locals access clean water in impoverished regions of Africa, the Caribbean, Central America and South America, but traveling to these remote areas, where the equipment and conveniences of home are often impractical and unavailable, can pose safety concerns. The key to success is relying on safety practices and equipment training. This involves knowing how to prepare for the trip, operate the drill correctly and ensure equipment is safe for the next crew.
The planning and preparation begins long before the flight takes off. Before a volunteer’s boots even touch the ground, charity organizations work with villages to determine a safe and convenient well location. This means finding stable ground with low risk of contamination and close access for villagers maintaining the well. While organizations complete this behind-the-scenes work, it’s a perfect time for volunteers to gain knowledge and experience that will make for a safe and successful mission.