As a homeowner, you will probably have several things on your mind. The to-do list goes on, from improving the aesthetic appeal of your space to adding modern amenities and features and ensuring regular maintenance.
Have you ever thought about the quality of water in your household supplies? Although it seems essential, most homeowners do not have it on their checklist.
But do you realize how harmful contaminated water can be to the well-being of your loved ones? Most homeowners know the hazards but overlook them unless disaster strikes. Unfortunately, contamination is more common than you imagine.
According to a research study, a large part of the U.S. waterways is likely polluted with “forever chemicals.” PFAS are present in detectable levels across 83% of the tested waterways.
It means you should be vigilant about the risk and implement measures to prevent and address it. Here is a comprehensive guide on water contamination in American homes.
Causes of Domestic Water Contamination
Table of Contents
Contamination of water supplies can happen due to a variety of reasons, making it challenging to address. The worst part is that most pollutants hardly have taste or smell, and they are not visible. You can imagine how difficult it is to detect them. Here is a list of potential culprits.
- Agricultural off from soil, including chemical fertilizers and pesticides
- Industrial wastes from activities such as foundries and mining
- Radiation leaks from nuclear plants
- Malfunctioning wastewater treatment systems
- Sewer overflows
- Landfill leakage
- Animal fecal waste containing pathogens
- High levels of water additives
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination: A Disaster Worth Mentioning
The Camp Lejeune disaster is worth mentioning because it is one of the most daunting environmental events when it comes to water contamination awareness. The disaster dates back from 1953 to 1987 when dangerous toxins like perchloroethylene (PCE), trichloroethylene (TCE), vinyl chloride, and benzene polluted water treatment plants supplying the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. Local dry-cleaning facilities, on-base leaks, and toxic spills were the sources of these hazardous chemicals.
Veterans, families, and other residents were exposed to contaminated water for decades. The exposure caused immense suffering to victims in the form of different types of cancers and other fatal diseases. The American government recently passed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, entitling victims to claim compensation for their suffering.
Law firms like TorHoerman Law, LLC, help victims secure their rightful claims. They also offer free consultations to potential clients looking to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit.
As a victim, it is vital to understand that eligibility boils down to proving the connection between your disease and exposure to toxins in Camp Lejeune water supplies, and a legal professional can guide you in this context.
Health Complications of Contaminated Water
While the Camp Lejeune disaster is a rare event, water contamination can be harmful to health in all forms. Here is a list of potential health problems your loved ones may face due to ongoing exposure to pollutants and toxins-
- Pathogens like Giardia, Legionella, Norovirus, E-coli, and Shigella may cause acute gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
- Extremely high amounts of copper can lead to liver and kidney damage and even death.
- Lead exposure causes learning difficulties, developmental delays, and behavioral problems in infants and children.
- Forever chemicals like PFAS have dire side effects such as liver damage, thyroid disease, cancer, and fertility issues.
- Some contaminants elevate the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth in pregnant women.
- The elderly are vulnerable to waterborne diseases and other complications due to the age factor.
Protecting Your Loved Ones
Contaminated water can cause severe health complications. As a homeowner, you must make a conscious effort to protect your loved ones from the perils of water pollutants and toxins. Fortunately, it is easy to address the risks, provided you act quickly.
Overlooking signs of pollutants and chemicals in your home supplies is the worst mistake because it can prolong the exposure and lead to severe harm. Watch out for red flags like cloudy appearance, bubbles, strange odors, and unusual taste, and report them to your utility immediately. Getting your household water tested is a good idea.
Conclusion
Water contamination is a dire threat to your loved ones, and ignoring the threat is the worst way to deal with it. Ongoing exposure can cause severe damage to the young and old alike. But awareness and vigilance are the best ways to stay ahead of the risk. Your loved ones are precious, so don’t take chances with their health.
