Dekalb-Jackson Water Supply District

Municipal water sources include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels across land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive materials, and can pick up substances from animal presence or human activities.

To ensure tap water safety, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, FDA regulations set limits for bottled water contaminants to provide equal public health protection. All water, including bottled varieties, typically contains at least trace amounts of some contaminants. THE PRESENCE OF CONTAMINANTS DOES NOT NECESSARILY INDICATE A HEALTH RISK.

For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline. Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than others. 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 from healthcare providers regarding their drinking water.

Information about Lead: Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from materials and components of service lines and home plumbing. While your water provider ensures quality drinking water, they cannot control the materials used in plumbing fixtures. After water sits for several hours, minimize lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Use only cold water for drinking, cooking, and especially baby formula preparation, as hot water likely contains higher lead levels. These actions are crucial for your family's health and effectively reduce lead levels, as most household lead typically comes from home plumbing rather than the water utility. If concerned about lead, consider having your water tested.

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