CARMI, Ill. - Is it okay to drink the water?
In decades past, this may not have been a question that was typically asked here. Occasionally, there would be stories from international travelers who were sickened after drinking water that had not been properly boiled or treated. But now, with the numerous reports of lead contamination in Michigan and reports of other types of water contamination elsewhere, safe drinking water is becoming a commodity that we cannot take for granted anymore.
While modern life has brought us many conveniences, it has also brought us the risks associated with various forms of water pollution, which can include contamination from nitrates, lead, chlorides, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), benzene, and even radioactive pollutants. Exposure to these and other contaminants can result in acute and chronic health issues that span from skin rashes to birth defects to many types of cancers. Water-borne VOCs, that when released to the air produce ozone, which can cause breathing problems, and benzene happens to be one of the most carcinogenic substances out there.
If your drinking water is supplied by a private water well and if you, your family members, or neighbors have experienced acute or chronic health issues that you suspect may be related to the water consumed, we may be able to help. We may be able to provide reduced cost water testing services for the more common types of well water pollutants, if your water source meets the criteria for testing. And if testing results determine that your water contains contaminants that risk your health and well-being, our volunteers will then do their best to provide you with resources to take the next steps that address your health concerns and deal with the root causes of your contaminated water.
This water testing service is available to the following counties in Southern Illinois: Jefferson, Franklin, Hamilton, White, Saline, Gallatin, Hardin, Pope, Johnson, Williamson, Perry, Jackson, Randolph and Union. To learn more about health related issue pertaining to water quality, there will be a community education event Monday, December 17 from 6:30-8pm at the Carmi Public Library, 103 Slocumb St, in Carmi, Illinois.
If you would like more information, please contact (872) 201-8525 or email saveILwater@gmail.com