What is still water and what makes it so dangerous?

Recently, I’ve stumbled upon lots of videos pertaining to still water and its hazardous properties. These videos typically contain an explorer exclaiming their distress after identifying still water that resides in an abandoned urban building. Initially, I was under the impression that still water was just a corrosive or toxic substance that impersonates water, however, that isn’t exactly the case.

The atomic makeup of still water is the same as regular water; it’s what adheres to the water that makes it toxic. The adhesion of waterborne bacteria, called biofilms, on the surface of the water causes a slime type construct which protects and harbors more bacteria which can be released and form even more biofilms. This chain reaction can be caught early at the adhesion state and can be reversed; which is what the flow of water does. So when bodies of water like swamps, lakes, and lagoons are entirely stagnant, the likelihood of biofilms forming is increased. Still water can be found in our area in any abandoned buildings with bodies of water residing in them.

Furthermore, mosquitoes love to lay their eggs on still water. While the larvae aren’t directly harmful to humans, the bacteria they feed off of is. Some pathogens and diseases that stagnant water can contain are legionella, e. coli, nontuberculous mycobacteria, and pseudomonas-related pneumonia. Although many are aware of this, it can still be a challenge to avoid its dangerous effects. Pathogens can become airborne; meaning one can be affected before even seeing the water and if one happens to fall into the water, their brain can be dissolved by brain-eating amoeba.

Now, what about mundane bodies of water? Is your glass of water still water? While a glass of water is obviously still, it is non-bacterial which is why it’s drinkable and the key difference between the two. How do we prevent bacteria growth in pools? When the pool is open it is treated with weekly PH checks to insure the acidic balance of the water. This is done with chemicals such as chlorine and salt converted chlorine. During closing season, the pool’s water level is drained below the jet pipes to prevent freezing, and covered with a dark mesh to leave sun and debris out.

In order to identify stagnant water you can look for any discoloration that might indicate contamination. However, if one is exposed to stagnant water they should go to the doctor and take the corresponding antibiotics. Ultimately, whenever you come across a stagnant body of water while exploring, it’s highly recommended to stay away and be extra precautious.