Do you know how safe your water is? Most people assume that the water coming through their pipes is 100% safe, but recent news stories across the country have proved otherwise. The lead contamination scandal in Flint, MI has been making headlines, but that city is far from the only one that has dangerous water. Towns and cities across the country are pumping contaminated water through their pipes, and lots of residents don’t know it. It can be scary to think that the water you’ve been drinking and bathing in could be full on contaminants, but there are some things you can do to ensure that your water is safe.
Research specific contaminants
This may come as a surprise, but water isn’t going to be 100% pure even if it’s high quality. Aquifers and water wells will have minerals in them, and they’re going to make their way into the water. If you see that your water has certain minerals or compounds in it, don’t panic. The EPA has an extensive list of common water contaminants that you can reference to see if you should be concerned.
Do your own water testing
You’ve done your research, and you still aren’t sure if you can trust your local water source. If you’re still on the fence about the safety and quality of your water, you can easily test it at home. Head to your local Home Depot or Lowes and pick up a water quality test kit.
Go to the water company
Did you know that EPA requires water utilities in the country to supply customers with a water quality report every year? That report is supposed to summarize any and all contaminants that may be present in your water and should alert you to the health risks they pose. Usually every water company has to supply this report by July first. If you pay your bill online it should be in the form of a downloadable PDF, but you pay via check it should be sent with your bill. If you aren’t sure where to find the report, don’t hesitate to contact your utility company and request a copy.
So you’ve learn that your water is contaminated…
There’s nothing more shocking than finding out that the water you’ve been using isn’t safe. If you do discover that there’s something wrong with your water, you should take action. Look into home water delivery so you can ensure that you have a source of fresh water. After that, alert your neighbors about the quality of their water. Don’t be afraid to write your congressman, representative, or even the news media about your findings. If you make enough noise and stir up enough trouble, you could see some positive changes.
Research specific contaminants
This may come as a surprise, but water isn’t going to be 100% pure even if it’s high quality. Aquifers and water wells will have minerals in them, and they’re going to make their way into the water. If you see that your water has certain minerals or compounds in it, don’t panic. The EPA has an extensive list of common water contaminants that you can reference to see if you should be concerned.
Do your own water testing
You’ve done your research, and you still aren’t sure if you can trust your local water source. If you’re still on the fence about the safety and quality of your water, you can easily test it at home. Head to your local Home Depot or Lowes and pick up a water quality test kit.
Go to the water company
Did you know that EPA requires water utilities in the country to supply customers with a water quality report every year? That report is supposed to summarize any and all contaminants that may be present in your water and should alert you to the health risks they pose. Usually every water company has to supply this report by July first. If you pay your bill online it should be in the form of a downloadable PDF, but you pay via check it should be sent with your bill. If you aren’t sure where to find the report, don’t hesitate to contact your utility company and request a copy.
So you’ve learn that your water is contaminated…
There’s nothing more shocking than finding out that the water you’ve been using isn’t safe. If you do discover that there’s something wrong with your water, you should take action. Look into home water delivery so you can ensure that you have a source of fresh water. After that, alert your neighbors about the quality of their water. Don’t be afraid to write your congressman, representative, or even the news media about your findings. If you make enough noise and stir up enough trouble, you could see some positive changes.