Paramount Water Department

Understanding Your Municipal Water Analysis

Your tap water undergoes systematic testing for unsafe levels of chemicals, radioactive compounds, and bacteria at both source and distribution points. Testing frequency varies from daily checks to annual assessments depending on the substance type and regulatory requirements. All water quality evaluations are conducted by certified technicians in state-approved California laboratories.

Water Quality Standards and Regulations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency establishes limits for substances permitted in tap water, while California's State Water Resources Control Board often implements even stricter standards. These regulations include Primary standards (health-related) and Secondary standards (aesthetic qualities) with Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) defined for each category.

Public Health Goals (PHGs) provided by the California Environmental Protection Agency offer supplementary information about water quality. These non-enforceable advisory levels, similar to federal Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs), represent concentrations below which no known health risks exist.

Understanding Your Water Quality Report

When reviewing your water quality table, compare the highest detected concentration with the MCL. Contaminants exceeding MCLs don't necessarily pose immediate health threats but require more frequent monitoring and potential remediation if levels remain elevated.

Common Sources of Water Contaminants

• Microbial contaminants from sewage treatment, septic systems, and agricultural operations
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals from natural sources or urban runoff
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture and residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes and petroleum production
• Radioactive contaminants occurring naturally or resulting from energy production

Special Health Considerations

Some individuals may be more vulnerable to contaminants in tap water, including those with compromised immune systems, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly individuals, and infants. These populations should seek medical advice about their drinking water.

Source Water Assessment

The Metropolitan Water District completed an assessment of Colorado River and State Water Project supplies in 2002, identifying vulnerabilities from recreation, urban runoff, urbanization, wastewater, wildlife, and agricultural activities. The City of Paramount conducted its groundwater assessment in 2003, identifying vulnerabilities from industrial activities including chemical processing, metal fabrication, dry cleaning, gas stations, auto repair, and salvage yards.

Frequently Asked Questions about Your Water Supply

1. What causes water hardness in Paramount?
2. How often is municipal water tested for contaminants?
3. What health effects are associated with DCPA degradates?
4. How can residents protect themselves from water contaminants?
5. Where can I find more information about local water quality?