Golden Heart Utilities

To guarantee tap water is safe for consumption, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes limitations on specific contaminant levels in public water systems. Similarly, the FDA regulates bottled water standards. Both tap and bottled water may contain small amounts of certain contaminants, which doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk.

For more details about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Municipal Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791). Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water moves across land or underground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and radioactive materials and may collect substances from animal presence or human activities.

Potential contaminants in source water include:

• Microbiological contaminants like viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants such as salts and metals, which may occur naturally or result from urban runoff, industrial/domestic wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, stormwater runoff, and residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organics from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants that may be naturally occurring or result from oil/gas production and mining activities

1. What if I have a water emergency? Monday through Friday, 7:00AM – 3:00PM, contact the Water Department at 508-949-3863. If unresolved or after hours, call the Webster Police Department at 508-943-1212, who will page the on-call operator.
2. What if I have discolored water? Run the cold water tap closest to where your water service enters the home until it clears. Avoid laundry, especially with bleach, until water clarity returns. Notify the Water Department to investigate potential causes.
3. How do I get notified of important water issues in Town? To receive water quality information, click the Code Red Button on the Water Department Main page and register. Once registered, you'll receive phone notifications about Water Department events or issues.
4. Can I get a senior rate? Yes, if you're 60 or older, living in a single-family home year-round. Complete the Senior Rate Form and bring it to the Water/Sewer Department in person for age verification. The rate activates when the form is returned.
5. How and when can I apply for an abatement of water costs? If experiencing a high bill, review the Water/Sewer Abatement Policy to check eligibility. Complete the Abatement Form and return it if qualified.
6. Who do I call if I see someone using a hydrant? Public fire hydrant use, except by Water or Fire Departments, is illegal. During business hours, notify the Water Department at 508-949-3863. After hours, call Webster Police at 508-943-1212, who will alert the Water Department.