Water can become unsafe in two ways: 1) the water itself is contaminated (e.g., a chemical is dumped in a river, in groundwater, etc.) or 2) what holds or carries the water is contaminated (e.g., the water travels through pipes with lead in them).
There are many different types of water contaminants from a wide range of sources. Water may be unsafe because of pollution from farms or factories, sewage spills or leaking septic systems. Fuel tanks or landfills can leak underground into water. Old pipes may contain lead and need to be replaced. Harmful bacteria called algal blooms can grow in both fresh and salt water, and make people and animals sick. and naturally-occurring contaminants, such as arsenic or radioactive elements. Chemicals or sewage can spread or spill from industrial areas or farms into local drinking water sources. Aging water pipes in need of replacement can contain lead. Water in ponds, lakes, rivers, and oceans can also contain certain chemicals or fecal matter. Public water sources and well water can become unsafe to drink or bathe in during or after wildfires or flooding.
- Examples of germs/bacteria that can make your family sick include: Cryptosporidium, E. coli, Giardia, Hepatitis A virus, Legionella, Norovirus, Rotavirus, Salmonella, Shigella.
- Examples of chemicals that can make your family sick include: arsenic, copper, lead, nitrate, pesticides, PFAS, radon, uranium.