A mixture of one part sugar and two parts Potassium Permanganate can be ground between two pieces of dry wood to start a fire quickly in dry conditions. Alternatively, a small amount of Potassium Permanganate crystals sprinkled on newspaper with a few drops of antifreeze can ignite the paper within 30 seconds. These methods are useful for troops performing field tasks.

Potassium Permanganate can also purify water by adding 3 to 4 grains per liter of water, turning it light purple after 30 minutes, making it safe to drink or cook with. Additionally, Potassium Permanganate solution can clean wounds and treat fungal infections, and its distinctive purple color can be used as a rescue signal on snow.