Cromwell Fire District Water Department

We're pleased to present this year's Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This document provides information about your water source, its contents, and how it compares to standards set by regulatory agencies. It represents a snapshot of last year's water quality. We're committed to keeping you informed because well-informed customers are our best allies.

Special Precautions: Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. People with compromised immune systems—such as those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly, and infants—may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek advice about municipal water from their healthcare providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate measures to reduce Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminant risks are available from the Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).

Water Source: Our water comes from groundwater pumped from four wells located in the northeast corner of town, known as The Gardiner Well Field. These wells tap into a substantial aquifer running beneath the Connecticut River Valley.

Understanding Water Contaminants: All municipal water, including bottled water, may reasonably contain at least small amounts of certain contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances from animal or human activity.

Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants (viruses, bacteria) from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants (salts, metals) occurring naturally or from urban runoff, industrial/domestic wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential uses
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic compounds, byproducts of industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants occurring naturally or resulting from oil/gas production and mining

To ensure tap water safety, EPA regulations limit certain contaminants in public water systems. FDA regulations establish similar limits for bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

Water Treatment: Your water undergoes disinfection treatment, which involves adding chlorine or other disinfectants to eliminate harmful bacteria and microorganisms. Disinfection is considered one of the most significant public health advances of the 20th century.

Water Conservation Tips: The average U.S. household uses approximately 400 gallons of water daily, or 100 gallons per person. Simple changes can make a big difference:

• Take shorter showers (5 minutes uses 4-5 gallons versus 50 gallons for a bath)
• Turn off water while brushing teeth, washing hair, or shaving to save up to 500 gallons monthly
• Use water-efficient showerheads to save up to 750 gallons monthly
• Run clothes washers and dishwashers only when full to save up to 1,000 gallons monthly
• Water plants only when necessary
• Fix leaky toilets and faucets
• Adjust sprinklers to water only lawns, not sidewalks or streets
• Teach children about water conservation

Visit www.epa.gov/watersense for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I read my water bill?
2. What is a CCF or kilogallon measurement?
3. What payment methods are accepted?
4. Who should I contact with billing questions?
5. What is the Low Income Rate Assistance (LIRA) program?
6. Why is my bill higher than usual this month?
7. Is there special notification service for elderly or disabled customers?
8. What are your Customer Center hours?
9. Who should I call for water emergencies like pipe breaks or damaged hydrants?
10. How do I shut off water to my home during plumbing repairs?
11. Is the water company responsible for plumbing leaks?
12. How do I transfer or discontinue water service?
13. Why must someone 18 or older be present when initiating service?
14. How do I check my water meter for accurate readings?
15. How can I detect and repair toilet leaks?
16. What emergency water supplies should I keep on hand?
17. What special precautions should kidney dialysis patients take?
18. Are there precautions pet owners should know about?
19. How do I protect pipes during winter?
20. How can I protect myself from utility scams?