With a global pandemic at the forefront of everyone’s minds, you might be wondering—is my water safe? Per the World Health Organization (WHO), there is no evidence of survival of the COVID-19 virus in drinking water or sewage. COVID-19 is believed to be transferred by close contact between individuals. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all Americans are safe to continue drinking and using water directly from their tap as usual.
Here are a few facts to reassure you that your drinking water is safe to drink and tips for helping yourself and your neighbors in this time.
Fact: The term “drinking water” is inclusive of all water that comes out of your tap and also includes bottled water, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This is because all water provided to your home is safe to drink.
Tip: In the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is not necessary to stockpile bottled water. In fact, this could deprive food pantries, shelters and first responders of water. COVID-19 is not transmitted through water, therefore your tap water is safe, clean and reliable as always. Continue using your water as usual. When grocery shopping for supplies, keep your neighbors in mind and avoid stockpiling.
Fact: Per the CDC, the United States has one of the safest drinking water supplies in the world. Our drinking water is treated and disinfected before it arrives at our tap, but there are plenty of ways you can help make this process easier. Whether your water is sourced from surface water or groundwater, you can help keep it clean.
Tip: Although all water is fully treated before arriving at your tap, you have the ability to help keep surface water clean. Be conscious of the things you are flushing and/or washing away into storm drains, especially in spring and summer months when using landscaping chemicals.
Fact: Wipes clog pipes. Whereas toilet paper is designed to break down as it moves through the plumbing system, wet wipes are not. In fact, wet wipes will remain nearly intact when moving through the plumbing system, causing clogs and blockage.
Tip: Be conscious of what you’re flushing down your toilet. By doing this, we can keep our systems and employees working efficiently and avoid damages to your plumbing system.
Fact: The EPA requires all water systems to produce a consumer confidence report to its customers every year. The consumer confidence report provides information on drinking water quality, where your water is sourced and the EPA’s standards for safe drinking water, among other details.
Tip: Read it! The consumer confidence report provides helpful information for you and your family regarding the water you use daily. SouthWest Water Company provides all consumer confidence reports within your state’s web page. Find your neighborhood and download the PDF version of your local report.
Fact: The CDC is continuing to provide updates and answers to questions as they become available.
Tip: You can stay informed with updates from the CDC through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and their website. You can also visit the SouthWest Water Company website to learn more about what we are doing to keep your drinking water safe and reliable.
These facts and tips are here to help you feel safe and secure with the water provided to you by your local utility. While we are moving through unprecedented times as a nation and global community, rest assured knowing your water is being monitored closely and undergoes a stringent disinfection process before arriving at your tap.