Is tap water safe to drink?

Is tap water safe to drink?

In the U.S., tap water is heavily regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974. This legislation allows the EPA to set standards for public drinking water, protecting citizens from harmful contaminants.

According to Rachel Noble, a professor of marine sciences, “the vast majority of American tap water is clean and safe for drinking and everyday use.” Treatment plants utilize advanced technologies to filter out over 90 known contaminants, ensuring the water is safe for consumption.

How can tap water become unsafe?

Despite stringent regulations, contaminants can occasionally affect drinking water safety. Sources of contamination include industrial accidents, aging infrastructure, and pollution from agricultural runoff. Lead contamination is a concern in older homes with lead pipes.

How to know if your drinking water becomes unsafe?

Be vigilant for signs of contamination: cloudy or off-colored water, unusual smells, or strange tastes. If you suspect contamination, report it to your utility company or local health department. At-home water testing kits can also help assess water quality.

For those concerned about contaminants, consider installing a water filtration system. While bottled water may seem like a safe alternative, it is not subject to the same rigorous testing as tap water.

In conclusion, while incidents of contamination do occur, the systems in place help ensure that tap water remains a safe choice for most Americans.

For more information, visit USA Today.