City of Eureka

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What potentially exists in untreated water supplies?

Various contaminants can be present in water before treatment processes:

• Microbial contaminants, including viruses and bacteria, often originate from wastewater facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife.
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals may occur naturally or result from urban runoff, industrial discharge, petroleum production, mining activities, and farming.
• Pesticides and herbicides commonly come from agricultural sources, urban runoff, and residential usage.
• Radioactive contaminants can be naturally occurring or result from oil/gas production and mining.
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile compounds, typically derive from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban storm runoff, and septic systems.

Is tap water safe for everyone?

Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than others. Individuals with compromised immune systems—including cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly individuals, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should consult healthcare providers regarding water consumption recommendations.

Elevated lead levels, when present, pose serious health concerns, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead typically enters water through service lines and household plumbing materials. While the Sandwich Water District provides high-quality water, it cannot control plumbing component materials. After water sits in pipes for several hours, running your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption can reduce potential lead exposure. If concerned about lead, consider water testing. More information is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.Epa.Gov/safewater/lead.

How is my tap water safety ensured?

The EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure drinking water safety. Similarly, FDA regulations set contaminant limits for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

Protect your water from cross-connections—points where potable water lines connect to non-potable sources. During backflow incidents, unprotected cross-connections could contaminate your home's water system and the community distribution network. Outdoor faucets and garden hoses represent common household cross-connections, especially when attached to chemical applicators. Install inexpensive vacuum breakers (available at hardware stores) on all outdoor faucets for protection. Other potential cross-connections include irrigation systems and fire protection networks. Contact the Sandwich Water District for more information.

How can I learn more about water issues?

You're welcome to attend Board of Water Commissioners meetings at the Sandwich Water District Office (72 Tupper Road, Sandwich, MA). Meetings occur on the second Thursday monthly at 5:00 p.m., with the Annual Water District Meeting scheduled for the third Monday in May.