It’s easy to take clean water for granted. Unfortunately, our advanced civilization still produces waste in large quantities, which can lead to water contamination.
If you or someone you love begins demonstrating symptoms that don’t seem to go away, your household water may be contaminated. If a water-contamination test confirms your suspicions, you should speak with a personal injury attorney right away.
Because water contamination often results from neglect by those tasked with properly disposing of toxic chemicals and pollution, you and your family may be eligible for compensation in a personal injury claim.
Contaminated Water Typically Has a Distinct Smell
Distinct smells coming from the tap and showers could be an indication that your water is contaminated. The most common smells are bleach, metal, fish, or rotten eggs.
While none of these smells confirm that your water is contaminated, it might be a good idea to order a water test, especially if the smell is new. Clean water has no perceptible scent at all.
Contaminated Water Typically Has an Unpleasant Taste
Just as with odors, clean water will not usually have a distinct taste. However, contaminated water often does.
If you taste something different in your water, chances are that something is off. Even a change in texture—such as a greasy or oily feeling from the tap—is a sign that your water is not sanitary.
Contaminated Water Might Look Cloudy
Contaminated water frequently looks cloudy as a result of chemicals or toxins. In extreme circumstances, it will appear almost muddy.
If your water appears cloudy, it is best to stop drinking the tap water until a water test determines it’s safe to drink.
Contaminated Water Might Leave Stains
When copper starts to contaminate your drinking water, you will see blue and green stains form on metal parts of the tap that are exposed to the water. This could happen inside your home at the sink or outside on a water spigot.
Bear in mind that some hoses and hose parts use copper. Therefore, if you see green/blue stains outside, but you do not see any stains in your sink, the water is probably fine. Excess copper in your drinking water will also have a metallic taste.
Contaminated Water Can Result in Lower Water Pressure
If toxic minerals and chemicals begin infiltrating your water system, build-up inside the pipes often accompanies the contamination. As a result, it will feel to you and your household that the water pressure is gradually decreasing.
These signs often indicate that your water is hazardous to use and drink. It is always best to stop using the water in your home until a test confirms that it is safe.
If you have no choice but to use water from the tap, you should boil any water before bathing or drinking it. Make sure that the water remains at a full boil for at least 60 seconds before cooling and using.
For more information about how a local, Indianapolis personal injury attorney can help you with your case, contact Stewart & Stewart at 800-333-3529 or visit our website.