Many Americans still face unsafe drinking water, which may contain toxic chemicals, heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants. Here’s how to assess your water quality and take steps to ensure it’s safe for your family.

Why Water Safety Still Matters

• Historic Improvements: The Safe Drinking Water Act (1974) authorized the EPA to regulate contaminants, improving water safety.
• Lingering Issues: Aging infrastructure, unregulated private wells, and “forever chemicals” like PFAS pose ongoing risks.
• Health Concerns: Contaminants like lead, bacteria, and synthetic compounds can cause cancers, immune problems, or developmental delays.

Steps to Ensure Safer Drinking Water

1. Check Your Water Quality

If You Use Public Water Systems:
- Obtain Your Water Report: Request your Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your water utility or landlord.
- Review for Key Contaminants: Look for arsenic, lead, or PFAS and compare reported levels with stricter guidelines from groups like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
- Test Your Tap Water: Consider testing your home water, especially if it’s an older building or you suspect contaminants like lead.

If You Use Private Wells:
- Test Regularly: The EPA advises annual testing for bacteria and regional contaminants like nitrates and radon.
- Contact Local Experts: Reach out to health departments for testing assistance or recommendations based on your area.

2. Know Common Contaminants

| Type | Examples | Risks | Source |
|-----------------------|--------------------------|-------------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Microorganisms | E. coli, Legionella | Illness, Legionnaires’ disease | Human/animal waste |
| Heavy Metals | Lead, Arsenic, Mercury | Developmental issues, kidney damage| Pipes, industrial waste |
| PFAS | PFOA, PFOS | Cancer, endocrine disruption | Industrial waste, consumer goods |
| Pesticides | Atrazine, Glyphosate | Kidney and reproductive issues | Agricultural runoff |
| Radioactive Materials| Uranium, Radon | Cancer, organ damage | Natural deposits, energy waste |

3. Use a Certified Water Filter

• Choose Certified Filters: Look for filters certified by NSF, WQA, or IAPMO to ensure they effectively remove contaminants.
• Match the Filter to Your Need:
• Whole-home systems: Protect all water entering your house.
• Under-sink or countertop units: Target specific taps.
• Pitcher filters: Affordable and portable options.
• Monitor Maintenance: Replace filters as required to maintain effectiveness.

4. Take Action if Contamination is Found

• For Lead: Consider lead removal filters and blood tests for vulnerable individuals.
• For Bacteria: Contact your health department and stop using the water until treated.
• For PFAS: Use a reverse osmosis filter or consult local programs for remediation.

Tips for Healthier, Tastier Water

• Improve Taste and Smell: Activated carbon filters can remove chlorine and sulfur odors.
• Prevent Future Issues: Stay informed about regional water risks and invest in routine maintenance.
• Advocate for Solutions: Engage with utilities and elected officials to address community water concerns.

By testing your water, using appropriate filters, and staying proactive, you can significantly improve the safety and quality of your drinking water.

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