Health Issues Related to Contaminated Water in Delaware
Water contamination continues to affect Delaware communities, especially in areas like Wilmington. When dangerous chemicals like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) get into the water supply, they pose serious health risks for everyone in the area.
If you live in Delaware, let our Wilmington water contamination lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. tell you how to seek legal recourse if water contamination has affected you or your loved ones.
What Health Problems Can Result from Contaminated Water?
Clean, potable water sustains life, but contaminated water can cause health issues, some of which you may not know about until years later. Studies have linked PFAS contamination to increased risk of cancer, liver damage, immune system disorders, reproductive issues, thyroid disease, higher cholesterol levels, and weakened immune responses. Scientists call them “forever chemicals” colloquially because they do not break down in the environment or the human body.
PFAS also disproportionately affects children and pregnant women. Studies also link exposure to developmental delays and other complications during pregnancy.
How Has Water Contamination Affected Delaware?
Wilmington has seen some of the highest levels of PFAS contamination in the state, with the contamination level at times far exceeding the safety guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Wilmington residents have lived with these levels for years and are now paying the price.
Residents have reported issues related to cancer clusters, autoimmune disorders, and other severe health challenges, despite the best efforts by local authorities to contain and resolve the contamination.
What Should You Do if You Suspect Your Water Is Contaminated?
If you believe your water is contaminated, consider taking it for a laboratory test or getting a blood test. Local authorities monitor PFAS levels in public water systems, but contamination can still happen.
If you can, drink from bottled water or install a carbon-based water filtration system to catch PFAS. Record any health issues you suspect might have to do with PFAS contamination in case you file or join a lawsuit for compensation.
Can You Take Legal Action if You Have Been Affected by Contaminated Water?
If you suspect that you have drank or exposed yourself to contaminated water in Delaware and are now suffering from resulting illnesses, you may have grounds for legal action. Residents nationwide have filed lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers, such as DuPont and 3M, for knowingly releasing these harmful chemicals into the environment.
Protect Your Health and Legal Rights With the Wilmington Water Contamination Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A.
If you have health issues related to water contamination, trust the Wilmington water contamination lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. to protect your legal rights. Call us at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Our New Castle and Millsboro, Delaware, offices serve clients in New Castle County, Kent County, and Sussex County.
Does Water Contamination Increase in Warmer Months?
It may not be noticeable to you yet, but the water you drink and use to wash yourself may be more polluted now than it was during winter. Numerous factors result in poor water quality during the summer, which can put your health at risk. Some parties may be to blame for higher pollution in the summer to a certain extent.
Summer water contamination can be caused by toxins seeping into water wells or runoff into streams and rivers. Water, in general, is more susceptible to pollution at higher temperatures, so people are exposed to more dangerous particles.
Runoff Is Far Worse During the Summer Months
One of the major causes of water pollution is storm water runoff. Rain gathers pollutants on the ground and fertilizer from farms. The runoff makes its way into streams and the overall water supply. Since there are more storms in the summer, water pollution generally worsens. Sudden and violent rainstorms generally lead to more runoff that can threaten waterways.
In addition, summer is when more fertilizers and other agricultural products aid crop growth. As crops grow, the fertilizer washes off them when they suddenly get wet. This means more toxic substances run off into the water supply. At the same time, more people are driving on the road, so there is more slick oil on the roadways. Rainstorms also Sweep pollutants on the roads into the sewer system, ultimately polluting streams and rivers.
Summer months also mean higher electricity usage. Homeowners and tenants use their air conditioning more often, heightening the power demand. Utilities are some of the largest polluters of waterways. Higher emissions into the air ultimately taint the water supply.
Groundwater Can Also Be Contaminated During the Summer
Remember that many communities do not have access to water infrastructure, especially those located outside of cities. They are more vulnerable to water supply changes because they rely on groundwater. Just because water is in the ground does not mean it is immune from the effects of pollution.
The biology of water itself also makes it more likely to be polluted in the summer. Warmer weather leads to a more hospitable environment where toxins can take root in the water. Studies show water has the highest bacteria levels when the temperature outside is 90°F or higher. Harmful algae and other dangerous microbes can grow in the water when the temperature is warmer.
Further, higher amounts of sunlight increase photosynthesis. Plants convert sunlight into energy, absorbing nutrients from the soil around them. While this is happening, sunlight also causes the bottoms of lakes and rivers to mature much more quickly. This leads to more absorption, coating the bottom layer of a waterway with more muck. Ultimately, this harms the water supply because it has more toxic particles.
The problem is only going to get worse as climate change accelerates. These same factors are leading to more violent storms and higher temperatures in general. Consumers can expect a continued deterioration in their water supply during the summer months. People can anticipate suffering from more waterborne illnesses because of the pollution they bathe in and drink daily.
Contact a New Castle Environmental Lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. for Help Today
A New Castle environmental lawyer at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help you take legal action If you have suffered an illness or injury from contaminated water. You may be able to sue the polluter for financial compensation. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in New Castle and Millsboro, Delaware, and we serve clients in New Castle County, Kent County, and Sussex County.
How a Lawyer Can Help With Water Contamination?
With industrial activities and urban development posing threats to water quality, the need for legal intervention has never been more critical. Before delving into the role of environmental lawyers, it’s crucial to grasp the scope and implications of water contamination. From chemical spills to industrial runoff, pollutants can infiltrate water sources, endangering public health, harming aquatic ecosystems, and disrupting communities’ livelihoods. Recognizing the urgency of these threats, environmental lawyers are poised to take action and mitigate the adverse effects of water contamination.
Legal Guidance
Environmental lawyers bring knowledge and experience, enabling them to navigate the intricate web of environmental regulations, statutes, and case law. Having seasoned lawyers on board is indispensable in Delaware, where water contamination cases may involve complex federal, state, and local legal frameworks. These legal professionals can assess the legal implications of contamination incidents, identify liable parties, and formulate effective strategies to pursue justice for affected communities.
Advocacy and Representation
A cornerstone of environmental lawyering is advocacy and representation. Lawyers dedicated to environmental causes serve as staunch advocates for their clients, tirelessly championing their interests in negotiations, administrative proceedings, or courtrooms. In Delaware, where communities grapple with the fallout of water contamination, skilled lawyers can level the playing field against powerful corporations or government agencies. By amplifying their voices and holding polluters accountable, lawyers empower affected individuals and communities to seek redress for the harm caused by water contamination.
Litigation and Legal Action
When negotiations fail to yield satisfactory outcomes, environmental lawyers can pursue litigation to seek justice and compensation. In Delaware, where water contamination incidents may result in widespread harm and damages, legal action may be necessary to hold negligent parties accountable. Whether filing lawsuits for negligence, seeking injunctions to halt polluting activities, or pursuing class-action litigation on behalf of affected communities, environmental lawyers leverage the legal system to enforce environmental laws and protect public health.
Community Engagement and Education
Beyond their roles as legal advocates, environmental lawyers play a vital role in engaging and educating the community about water contamination issues. Through outreach programs, workshops, and educational initiatives, lawyers raise awareness about the causes and consequences of water pollution, empower individuals with knowledge about their rights, and mobilize community action to address environmental injustices. Lawyers foster collaboration, solidarity, and grassroots activism to effect positive change in Wilmington, where community resilience is paramount in combating water contamination.
Our Wilmington Environment Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Will Help You
If you or a loved one has been affected by water contamination, our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Together, we can hold polluters accountable, safeguard our water resources, and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Can Asbestos Lead to Water Contamination?
Water contamination is a growing concern. Asbestos, once hailed for its durability and resistance to heat, was widely used in the construction of pipes for water distribution. However, as these pipes age, they deteriorate, threatening water quality.
Here are a few health risks associated with asbestos exposure:
- Respiratory issues: Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to respiratory problems such as asbestosis, a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue. This can result in difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, and chest pain.
- Mesothelioma: Asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Mesothelioma often has a long latency period, making detecting it in its early stages challenging.
- Other lung cancers: Asbestos exposure has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. The risk is particularly high among individuals who smoke and have a history of asbestos exposure.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Ingesting asbestos-contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal problems. Asbestos fibers can accumulate in the digestive system, potentially causing inflammation, discomfort, and other issues.
Preventing Water Contamination
To help prevent water contamination, communities can do the following:
- Pipe replacement: To address the issue of water contamination, municipalities need to prioritize the replacement of aging asbestos-cement pipes with modern, safer alternatives. This proactive approach can help prevent further deterioration.
- Regular monitoring and testing: Implementing regular monitoring and testing programs for water quality is essential. This includes routine inspections of the water distribution system to identify deteriorating pipes.
- Public awareness: Educating the public about the potential risks of contaminated water is crucial. Providing information on how to identify and report issues empowers communities to actively participate in safeguarding their water supply.
- Legal regulations: Governments and regulatory bodies must enact and enforce stringent regulations regarding using and maintaining asbestos-containing materials in water infrastructure. This includes guidelines for the safe removal and disposal of asbestos pipes.
Through proactive measures such as pipe replacement, regular monitoring, public awareness, and stringent regulations, we can safeguard our water supply and protect the health and well-being of communities. It is imperative to prioritize safety and environmental responsibility to ensure access to clean water for generations to come.
Our Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Communities Affected by Water Contamination
If you suspect your water is contaminated, speak with our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How Can Environmental Damage Result in a Lawsuit?
Environmental regulations and laws are in place to protect the people, animals, and the planet. Environmental litigation is essential to hold people and organizations who pollute the environment accountable and also to dissuade others from contaminating water, air, and wildlife.
There are a few key laws that govern environmental policies in the United States:
- The Clean Air Act: The Clean Air Act empowers the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate air quality standards for air pollutants like lead, carbon dioxide, and ozone that are harmful to our health.
- The Clean Water Act: Among other regulations, the Clean Water Act (CWA) makes it unlawful to disperse a pollutant from a point source into large water sources without a permit.
- The Endangered Species Act: Passed in 1973, this law protects animals and the habitats they live in from becoming threatened or endangered.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Act: The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requires employers to provide a safe workplace for all employees and inform them of potential exposure to chemicals or toxins.
- The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act: This law, passed in 1980, regulates the management of emergency cleanup of accidents, spills, and hazardous waste sites.
What Is Toxic Exposure?
Environmental lawsuits often involve allegations of toxic exposure and harm. Exposure to toxic, harmful substances through inhalation or skin contact can be hazardous to human life and the soil, air, and water.
The most common types of toxic exposure include:
- Asbestos: Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral used in many building material and other products. If asbestos particles are inhaled or ingested, they can cause cancer and other health problems.
- Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas made when fuel burns. CO fumes are toxic and breathing them in can be life-threatening. Unvented heaters are the most common source of CO poisoning.
- Lead: Lead is another substance that is naturally-occurring in the earth. Until the 1970s, lead was widely used in paints and is still permitted in small amounts today. Cumulative exposure to lead over time can lead to serious health problems, especially in young children.
- Oil: Oil is a mixture of various hazardous chemical compounds that cause cancer and other illnesses when inhaled; it can harm people and wildlife. Oil spills are devastating for the ecosystem. They pollute the water and release toxic fumes that permeate the air.
Who Can File an Environmental Lawsuit?
Anyone who experiences bodily harm due to environmental damage has a right to bring a civil environmental claim against the at-fault party. They can sue the entity for violating an environmental law and possibly recover damages for any losses incurred as a result of that violation.
What Is a Class Action Environmental Lawsuit?
A class action lawsuit is a claim brought by a group of people who are in the same situation. In the context of environmental law, for example, the residents of a subdivision might file a class action lawsuit against a developer who built their homes on toxic soil without remediating the site or disclosing the risk of toxic exposure.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Represent Clients Facing Complex Environmental Law Matters
If you need help with an environmental lawsuit, one of our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can assist. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Lead Detected in Drinking Water in Delaware Schools
Lead found in the water of almost 50 schools in Delaware caused state officials to shut off the water supply in at least one of them. The Delaware Division of Public Health in early October advised school officials at Wallace Wallin School in New Castle to shut off the school’s water supply due to elevated levels of lead. School officials complied prior to the start of the 2022 school year and are using bottled water.
The state detected up to 12 times the accepted level of lead when testing the water in a break room for Wallace Wallin School staff. Wallace Wallin is just one of 47 schools in Delaware whose water supply contains lead.
Delaware Public Health officials say some of the lead-tainted waters found were for uses other than drinking.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that no amount of lead is safe because even very low levels could cause harm, especially to young children. The Delaware Department of Public Health is continuing to test and monitor the lead in the water.
Why Is Lead Dangerous?
Accumulation of lead could lead to poisoning. Lead poisoning could cause several health complications, including:
- Growth disorders.
- Gastrointestinal problems.
- Pregnancy complications.
- Mood swings.
Small children are especially vulnerable and might suffer from stunted growth or physical development. Damage to the kidneys or nervous system is possible.
Lead poisoning might make you feel nauseous and experience abdominal pain. It also could cause constipation, weight loss, or a loss of appetite. Lead poisoning could lead to mood changes as well.
Pregnant women might give birth to infants that have a lower birth weight or other complications, including miscarriage.
Adults could suffer from hypertension, high blood pressure, or headaches. Joint and muscle pain are among the many potential health complications.
Common Sources of Lead Contamination
Lead is a heavy metal that is toxic. When found in public water supplies, older lead pipes are often the culprit of the water contamination.
A well-known example is the lead contamination in the Flint, Michigan water supply. The contamination occurred after Flint officials switched the city’s water source, which eroded a protective layer of lime buildup within the city’s water pipes. This resulted in unsafe levels of lead in the city’s water supply that continues to be a problem several years after its discovery.
In Delaware, public health officials have not identified any sources of lead contamination at the 47 afflicted schools. Testing might help identify the causes.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help if You Have Been Harmed by Water Contamination
If you believe you have an illness from contaminated water, find out your legal options today. Speak with one of our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. for legal assistance. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we represent clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune Causing Health Problems
Camp Lejeune is a Marine Corps base camp in North Carolina that has been in use since the 1940s. In the early 1980s, due to water contamination, potentially hazardous chemicals were detected in two water treatments plants that provided water for the base.
These water contaminants are linked to serious health problems, including several types of cancer. Individuals who lived and/or worked in or near Camp Lejeune from the 1950s to the late 1980s may have been exposed to these chemicals and have or be at risk of developing these conditions.
Traces of four chemicals were detected in drinking water sources at Camp Lejeune.
Benzene
Benzene is a colorless liquid, flammable liquid that has a slight sweet odor. Benzene occurs naturally in forest fires, volcanoes, and other areas of eruption. It is also created as a byproduct of human activity.
Benzene is used in a wide range of products and materials, including dyes, detergents, glues, lubricants, resins, and plastics. Initial exposure to benzene can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and headaches. Prolonged exposure is linked to anemia and leukemia.
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE or PERC)
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE or PERC) is a nonflammable, colorless liquid primarily used in dry cleaning and metal degreasing. It is also used as a “building block” material to create other chemicals. PCE can be released into the air and water where it is produced, exposing those who live and work near these sites to its harmful effects.
In high concentrations, exposure to PCE can cause confusion, nausea, headaches, unconsciousness, and even death. Long-term exposure to PERC is linked to renal disease and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Trichloroethylene (TCE)
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is also a nonflammable and colorless liquid at room temperature. While it gives off an ether-like odor in high amounts, there is no odor at lower levels. TCE is used to degrease metal parts during the manufacturing process of different products. It is also added to paint removers, wood varnishes, adhesives, and stain removers.
TCE that has spilled or been dumped can seep down into the soil and water supply. There is sufficient evidence to suggest long-term exposure to TCE can lead to leukemia, liver cancer, multiple myeloma, and Parkinson’s disease.
Other health problems that may be linked to TCE and/or PCE include:
- Breast cancer.
- Cervical cancer.
- Impaired immune system.
- Low birth weight.
- Lung cancer.
- Miscarriage.
- Neurological deficits.
- Ovarian cancer.
Vinyl Chloride
Vinyl chloride (VC) is a colorless gas that becomes liquid under high pressure or in low temperatures. It does not occur naturally and is formed when other chemicals like TCE and PCE break down. VC is most commonly used to make PVC a, material used in pipes, wires, and other plastic products. At this time, research supports a link between exposure to VC and liver cancer.
Every individual’s reaction to exposure to these and other substances is different. Your prognosis depends in part on your overall health, the method, frequency, and length of exposure, and your lifestyle habits, such as drinking or smoking. Contact your health care provider about your symptoms or concerns.
I Developed a Serious Health Condition and Worked at Camp Lejeune. Can I Sue for Medical Bills?
If you have been diagnosed with cancer or other complications and believe it may be linked to the contamination at Camp Lejeune, legal action may help you recover your medical expenses and other losses. Congress also passed a bill in August 2022 to provide additional benefits for veterans affected by toxic exposure. Contact an environmental lawyer to discuss your case.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Advocate for Clients Harmed by Toxic Exposure at Camp Lejeune
If you are dealing with a serious health condition caused by contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune, one of our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. can help. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. We have offices in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware and assist clients in Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
Are Public Drinking Fountains Safe?
Most people do not think twice about water safety when they drink from a drinking fountain. Almost all public water fountains that are found in public buildings, schools, and parks get their water from the public water service. Whatever treatment, screening, and testing process is done at the water plant is usually the only type of screening the water goes through before you consume it. In most instances, the water is safe. However, there have been cases where the water being pumped out to the public has been contaminated.
Drinking contaminated water can cause health problems ranging from skin rashes to cancer. The severity of the illness depends on many factors, including what chemical or bacteria and what amount got into the water. Also, the length of time you were exposed to the contaminated water could dictate how sick you become.
Sources of Drinking Fountain Contamination
Since most drinking fountain water comes from a publicly-owned, government water processing plant, the contamination usually happens before it gets to the plant. For whatever reason, the plant does not test and treat the water to remove that particular chemical or substance. Groundwater can be contaminated by many sources:
- coli which is found in human and animal fecal waste.
- Water additives such as fluoride and chlorine.
- Erosion of natural deposits such as mercury, lead, and asbestos.
- Organic chemicals often found in run off from herbicides or pesticides used on crops or discharged from chemical, agricultural, and other industrial factories.
- Inorganic chemicals discharged from refineries and factories such as nitrate, arsenic, and cyanide.
What Are Physical Symptoms From Drinking Contaminated Water?
Sometimes, it may take years to realize that you are drinking contaminated water. However, with some types of exposures, there are certain physical symptoms that you may notice. Some symptoms you may experience from drinking contaminated water include:
- Diarrhea.
- Nausea.
- Intestinal or stomach cramping.
- Intestinal or stomach aches and pains.
- Dehydration.
Medical Conditions Caused by Contaminated Water
There are many medical conditions that can be caused by drinking contaminated water, such as:
- Gastrointestinal illness.
- Legionnaires’ disease.
- Increased risk of cancer.
- Anemia.
- Shortness of breath.
- Increased blood pressure or blood cholesterol.
- Bone disease.
- Nerve damage.
- Liver, kidney, spleen, thyroid, or adrenal gland problems.
- Dermatitis.
- Eye or nose irritation.
- Hair or fingernail loss.
- Intestinal lesions or polyps.
- Reproductive problems.
- Nervous system, cardiovascular, circulatory, or central nervous system problems.
There are local, state, and federal laws that protect public water sources. The Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act are federal laws that set regulations and standards that control how wastewater, chemicals, and other dangerous substances are disposed of all in protection of ground water and navigable waterways.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Are Here to Fight for Your Rights if You Are Sick Because of Water Contamination
If you believe you are experiencing health problems due to drinking contaminated water, speak to one of our Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How Contaminated Is US Tap Water?
Millions of Americans may be shocked to know that the water they are drinking is not very safe, according to a two-year-long analysis conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). In this study, the EWG had detected over 320 contaminants in the nation’s drinking water systems, meaning there is contaminated water. These toxins, many of which are not regulated by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), are linked to adverse health effects such as cancer or neurological disorders.
The EWG analyzed over 50,000 water systems spread out across the country, creating the Tap Water Database. With this database, users can enter their ZIP code to see their local water’s report, complete with what type and the amount of chemicals found in their drinking water. Furthermore, the database offers users to view what kind of health effects they are in danger of with the toxins they are exposed to.
What Types of Contaminants are in Tap Water?
Over the course of two years, the EWG database looked for over 500 different contaminants in the nation’s water systems and found over 300. These contaminants included:
- Arsenic
- Copper
- Lead
- 1,4-dioxane
- Benzene
- Uranium
Most of the contaminants found are called “forever chemicals”, referring to the seemingly endless lifecycle of certain chemical compounds that can take thousands of years to break down. There are more than 600 PFAS compounds used in many everyday products like cookware or cosmetics, out of more than the known 9,000 PFASs. Scientifically known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), they can cause a myriad of health problems over long term exposure.
Why is Tap Water Contaminated?
According to the EWG, there are several reasons explaining why there are so many contaminants in U.S. water systems. The use and disposal of PFAs over several decades mean they can now be found in virtually everything: our air, water, even our own bodies. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that they have found PFAs in every blood stream when they have tested for them.
The PFAs found in our drinking water and our bodies are potentially dangerous and are linked to many diseases, such as:
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension
- Immune disorders
- Kidney cancer
- Liver damage
- Preeclampsia
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Ulcerative colitis
Many of today’s drinking water come from sources that are outdated. There are many local communities using lead pipes today, even when their local water supplies are modernized and filtered. There is also the problem with nearby factories producing waste that finds its way into our streams and underground water systems, contaminating the water coming out of the reservoirs.
The EPA and the Safe Drinking Water Act
In 1974, the federal government issued the Safe Drinking Water Act for the EPA to monitor the nation’s tap water. With this law, the EPA had researched and confirmed the legal maximum contaminant level (MCL) for our drinking water to be at 90 contaminants, which is far from safe and has not changed for almost 50 years. In fact, there have been no new contaminants added to the EPA’s watch list since 2000.
According to the EWG’s report, the EPA is drastically behind in keeping up with the new contaminants and microplastics, and change is needed immediately. However, even with limited EPA regulations imposed, there are far less resources to penalize the public systems, as well the lack of funding to even update the infrastructure.
The Wilmington Chemical Exposure Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Families with Unsafe Tap Water
If you suspect that your family is drinking unsafe tap water, then you must contact our Wilmington chemical exposure lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. immediately. Our skilled and experienced team has years of experience with cases of this type and will help you receive compensation. Call us today at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With our offices located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we proudly serve all communities of Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.
How Can I Tell if Well Water is Contaminated?
In recent years, the safety of ground water and well water in Delaware has become a major issue. The problem with receiving your household water from a well is that your water comes from groundwater. Most private wells are not tested regularly. This is compared to public water which is tested regularly as required by both state and federal regulations. Specifically, at the federal level, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires municipalities and companies that provide water to the public to undergo rigorous testing.
For private well owners, there is no requirement for any testing. If any testing is completed on a private well, the homeowners are required to do it, and pay for it, themselves. It is important to know what to look for in how to spot if your well water is contaminated.
Visible Signs of Contamination
There are visible signs of well water contamination that you can spot if you know what to look for:
- Scale or scum accumulation caused by calcium of magnesium minerals within the water. This creates what’s commonly referred to as “hard water.” Scale buildup will look like a white powdery substance left behind.
- Cloudy water can be a sign of contamination of many types of substances including rust or dirt or substances. Cloudy water could also indicate problems with your home’s pipes. Overtime, pipes can become corroded or rusted, causing water to be cloudy.
- Green stains on faucets, sinks, bathtubs, and showers, is indicative of your well water being contaminated with high levels of acid. The acid can come from various materials in your well water including certain metals such as iron, copper, or zinc. If the acid is at high enough levels, it can also cause physical health problems such as diarrhea, cramps, vomiting, liver disease, and kidney problems.
- Brown or red stains caused by well water is indicative of dissolved iron in your water. You will see these strains in your sink, dishwasher, or even your clothes after washing them. High levels of iron in your water can cause injuries with your organs, including your heart, liver, and pancreas.
These visible signs of well contamination can often be seen in older homes with older sinks and faucets that are serviced by private water wells.
Does Your Water Taste Funny?
Not only are there visible signs of contamination, there are also signs of contamination on how the water tastes. Here are some funky tastes to look out for in your well water:
- Salty taste indicates high sodium or chloride contamination.
- Soapy taste in your well water indicates high levels of alkaline minerals.
- Chemical taste to the water indicates high levels of chlorine and cleaning chemicals in your well water.
Wilmington Environmental Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Help Clients with Contaminated Well Water Claims
If you have experienced health problems due to contaminated well water, you may seek compensation to help. Our knowledgeable Wilmington environmental lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. have are experienced in helping homeowners with contaminated wells. Call us today 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation are our law offices in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware. We serve clients in Dover, New Castle County, Sussex County, and throughout Delaware.