E. Coli Found in West Baltimore Water, CDC Reminds Homeowners to Routinely Test Private Well Water

Officials in West Baltimore, Maryland, released an advisory after E. coli bacteria was found in public water systems after routine water testing. Although routine tests are done on public water systems, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that homeowners who use well water should be checking their water annually for contaminants such as bacteria and chemicals. 

Source: mnhealth/YouTube

Many homes get their water supply from private wells. However, these wells can grow bacteria, and chemicals can even enter and collect in the water supply making it incredibly important to check routinely. These bacteria and chemicals can lead to diseases and can make families sick.

According to the CDC, over 15 million U.S. households rely on private wells for drinking water. Wells use groundwater which can often be contaminated and can cause illness if consumed. Groundwater pollution can come from landfills, failed septic tanks, underground fuel tanks, fertilizers and pesticides, and runoff from urban areas.

Keep an eye on if your water begins to have a funny smell or taste or if you begin to experience health issues. These health issues will typically be related to your stomach, or even a change in your hair could be a sign of harmful bacteria.

Unfortunately, private wells are not regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), so the responsibility is on the homeowner to make sure it is safe to consume. The CDC has resources for homeowners with wells and how they can go about testing.

“Here you may find information on the basics of wells, proper methods of siting and location for wells, all about testing and how often to test a well, proper treatment of wells and maintenance of wells, information on well retirement, common diseases and contaminants associated with wells, emergency treatment of wells, and answers to frequently asked questions about wells.”

Just a few years ago, state testing in California found over 600 drinking water wells had traces of toxic chemicals known to cause cancer. It is extremely important to make sure that the water you’re drinking is safe!

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