Even more concerning, kids are paying the price for these careless mishaps. Lead poisoning has become a reality among children in the community of Flint. And some of the consequences associated with this health crisis are considered long-term.
But that’s not all. The simple use of water for hygienic purposes has brought about rashes in some residents. In other words, a simple shower could lead to this frustrating health consequence.
Here’s the thing: Flint isn’t the only community that has been affected by dangerous ingredients in drinking water. According to HutchNews.org, water testing has found carcinogens in the water supplies of three different states.
Other States' Water Woes
For starters, in Texas, arsenic has been found in some water supplies. And in New Jersey, a chemical called dioxane was found in the water supplies of more than 12 towns located near the Wanaque Reservoir as a result of industrial waste runoff. The chemical can cause kidney and liver failure in extremely high doses. North Carolina has also been added to the list due to the presence of haloacetic acids in the water of some areas. According to LiveStrong.com, these chemicals may cause skin irritation and increase cancer risk.
What About Your Water?
This has brought many Americans to ask two important questions: How do you investigate the water quality in your home? And how do you find out if you have a lead problem, like the one in Flint?
According to Consumer Reports, lead comes into contact with drinking water through old or corroded pipes. However, it can't be seen, tasted or smelled. So you’ve got to know how the water system works to research its contents.