Rain Water

[Moog]

What treatment would I have to pass rain water through before it becomes potable?

[pinus]

It depends on how you collect it, to some extent. In the heart of Tanzania we collected rainwater from the roof, collecting it in a tank under the verandah. There were traps to hold back larger particles washed off the roof. Before using water for drinking, it was boiled and then filtered. If you're just standing in the rain, collecting it in a basin, drink away. We've all refreshed ourselves by drinking from mountain streams, and they're not treated. (Apart, perhaps from the odd deceased sheep :) )

[JackSnakes]

Rainwater is the purest form of water there is. It is distilled by evaporation and condensation. Regarding potability, that will depend entirely on the environment you live in. If you live in a smoggy city, it may not be all that good for you - in the country, there is nothing purer.