Water Contaminants in Wheat Ridge, CO: What You Need to Know
Nick2023-09-18T15:37:35-06:00Wheat Ridge is a beautiful city located just west of Denver, Colorado. It is a popular destination for people who enjoy the outdoors, as it is close to the Rocky Mountains and offers a variety of recreational activities. However, it is important to be aware that the water supply in Wheat Ridge contains a number of contaminants that can be harmful to human health.
According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), there are 11 water contaminants in the water supply of Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
Image of Water contaminants in Wheat Ridge, CO
Here is a list of the 11 water contaminants in the water supply of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, along with a short description for each contaminant:
- Arsenic: A naturally occurring metal that can be harmful to human health at high levels. Arsenic can cause cancer, skin problems, and other health problems.
- Bromodichloromethane: A chemical that is formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water. Bromodichloromethane has been linked to cancer and other health problems.
- Bromoform: A chemical that is formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water. Bromoform has been linked to cancer and other health problems.
- Chloroform: A chemical that is formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water. Chloroform has been linked to cancer and other health problems.
- Chromium (hexavalent): A metal that can be found in the environment in both natural and man-made forms. Chromium (hexavalent) is an essential nutrient in small amounts, but it can be harmful to human health at high levels. Chromium (hexavalent) can cause cancer and other health problems.
- Haloacetic acids (HAA5): A group of chemicals that are formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water. HAA5 have been linked to cancer and other health problems.
- Manganese: A naturally occurring metal that can be found in the environment. Manganese is an essential nutrient in small amounts, but it can be harmful to human health at high levels. Manganese can cause neurological problems, such as tremors and muscle weakness.
- Mercury (inorganic): A metal that can be found in the environment in both natural and man-made forms. Mercury (inorganic) is a potent neurotoxin that can cause damage to the brain and nervous system.
- Molybdenum: A mineral that is an essential nutrient in small amounts, but it can be harmful to human health at high levels. Molybdenum can cause neurological problems, such as tremors and muscle weakness.
- Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs): A group of chemicals that are formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water. TTHMs have been linked to cancer and other health problems.
- Uranium: A naturally occurring radioactive element that can be harmful to human health at high levels. Uranium can cause cancer and other health problems.
- Vanadium: A metal that can be found in the environment. Vanadium is an essential nutrient in small amounts, but it can be harmful to human health at high levels. Vanadium can cause respiratory problems and other health problems.
It is important to note that the levels of these contaminants in the water supply of Wheat Ridge are below the EPA’s maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). However, the EWG Health Guidelines are more stringent than the EPA’s MCLs, and they take into account the potential health risks of exposure to even low levels of contaminants.
How can I reduce my exposure to water contaminants in Wheat Ridge, CO?
There are a few things you can do to reduce your exposure to water contaminants in Wheat Ridge, CO:
- Install a water filter. A water filter can remove many of the contaminants from your drinking water.
- Boil your water for at least one minute. This will kill any bacteria or viruses that may be present in your water.
- Drink bottled water. Bottled water is often filtered and purified, so it can be a good option if you are concerned about the quality of your tap water.
You can also have your water tested by a certified laboratory to determine the levels of contaminants in your water.
Conclusion
If you are concerned about the quality of your drinking water in Wheat Ridge, CO, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself. You can install a water filter, boil your water for at least one minute, or drink bottled water. You can also have your water tested by a certified laboratory to determine the levels of contaminants in your water.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.