North Reading Water Department

Safe Municipal Water: The North Reading Water Department is pleased to present our annual water quality report, covering all testing conducted between January 1 and December 31, 2017. Our Water Division continuously strives to deliver water that meets or exceeds all state and federal standards.

We're constantly implementing new methods to provide the highest quality water to homes and businesses across our service area. As new water safety challenges emerge, we remain committed to protecting water sources, promoting conservation, and educating our community while meeting the needs of all residents.

Important Health Information
Some individuals may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general population. People with compromised immune systems—including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, elderly individuals, and infants—may face higher risks from infections. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption. The EPA and CDC guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or visiting water.epa.gov/drink/hotline.

Lead in Household Plumbing
Elevated lead levels pose serious health risks, particularly for pregnant women and young children. While we provide high-quality water, we cannot control the materials used in residential plumbing components. After water sits stagnant for several hours, you can minimize potential lead exposure by running your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption or cooking. If concerned, consider having your water tested. Information about lead in water, testing methods, and exposure reduction strategies is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or www.epa.gov/lead.

Understanding Cross Connections
A cross connection occurs when drinking water supply lines connect to equipment containing chemicals (like air conditioning systems, fire sprinklers, irrigation systems) or questionable water sources (like pools). These connections present contamination risks through backpressure (when equipment pressure exceeds water system pressure) or backsiphonage (when system pressure drops).

Outdoor hose bibs and water taps are common cross-connection risks in homes. Garden hoses create hazards when submerged in pools or attached to chemical sprayers. Even hoses left on the ground may become contaminated by fertilizers or garden chemicals.

North Reading inspects all commercial, industrial and institutional facilities to identify potential cross connections and ensure they're eliminated or protected by backflow prevention devices that we regularly inspect and test.

Watershed Protection Recommendations
All of North Reading falls within the Ipswich River watershed. To protect our water resources, the Water Department recommends:

• Limiting lawn chemical applications by following manufacturer guidelines for fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides
• Properly storing and disposing of hazardous waste products like oils, fuels, chemicals, batteries, and mercury-containing devices
• Reporting unauthorized fire hydrant use, which can cause water main damage, discoloration, or contamination
• Staying vigilant about suspicious activity near water facilities

The North Reading DPW is implementing EPA-required stormwater controls to protect water resources from contamination and sedimentation. Visit www.northreadingma.gov for stormwater and pollution prevention information.

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