Our water comes from many sources like rivers, lakes, and underground. But sometimes things we can’t see can sneak into the water without knowing. These hidden dangers could harm us if we drink the water.
In this blog post, we will cover several hidden dangers lurking in drinking water. Along with this, we will also discuss effective methods that you can use to remove these dangers from the water.
Some Hidden Dangers That Are Most Likely to Be Lurking in Your Drinking Water
Do you know that not all water is safe to drink? While water is important for our bodies, sometimes yucky things can sneak into the water without us seeing. Let’s learn about some possible problems water could have.
- Chemicals
Chemicals from factories, farms, and other places have the potential to mess with our drinking water, too. Things like lead from old water pipes or arsenic from some wells aren’t good for us if we drink them for a long time.
Other chemicals called VOCs that are sometimes found in gasoline aren’t very healthy either. It’s best if we can filter out or avoid excess chemicals that may be hiding out in our drinking water.
- Radiological Contaminants
Some water sources can contain tiny amounts of radiation. Radiation comes from natural things like rocks and soil, but also man-made stuff involving machines. A type of radiation called uranium that comes from natural rocks is one example.
Too much exposure to radiation over a long time isn’t good for our bodies. We need to make sure our water doesn’t have too much natural or man-made radiation hiding in it, which is why treating water is so important.
- Lead
Lead is another contaminant that can also be lurking in your water. It often gets there from old lead pipes or solder in plumbing. Young kids are most at risk since their bodies and brains are still developing. Extra lead can hurt the learning and behavior of children.
That is why it’s so important to have your home’s water tested for lead. And remember not to let water sit in lead pipes overnight. We must protect kids from the harmful effects of lead by being aware of the sneaky danger in our drinking water.
- Arsenic
Arsenic hides where we can’t see in well water. This element comes from rocks and dirt, sometimes dissolving without our knowing. But long-term exposure to high arsenic isn’t good for our bodies. It has been connected to serious health problems later on.
The scariest part is that arsenic has no smell, color, or taste in water. The only way to check is by testing. If levels are too high, switching to filtered water or another source protects us. Our bodies are strong but need help fighting sneaky arsenic that tries to harm us without showing its face.
- Bacteria
Bacteria can cause yucky stuff like diarrhea, stomachaches, and other issues if they end up in our drinking water. Things like E. coli or Cryptosporidium are two types that live in poop and soil. They might sneak into the water after it rains if poop gets washed away.
Boiling won’t always get rid of them. And they’re so tiny you can’t see or taste them. Testing is important, and water filters or treatment plants help remove bacteria before they reach our homes. Our bodies can’t fight what they can’t see, so we gotta be smart.
- Fluoride
Fluoride occurs naturally in some waters. The right amount strengthens teeth and prevents cavities, but too much over the years may affect bones. The fluoride level differs depending on where you live.
It’s important to find out how much is in your water so you don’t drink too much or too little by mistake. Our smiles need just the right balance of fluoride to stay healthy and cavity-free for life. Always drink filtered water if levels are too high.
- Algal blooms and Toxins
Algal blooms occur when lots of algae multiply fast in water bodies. They need nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen to flourish. Sometimes, farms and cities accidentally add too much of these to lakes and rivers. Then, the algae party gets out of control.
During a bloom, algae may discharge poisons like microcystin into the water. Drinking or swimming in it could make you vomit or feel dizzy. Boiling doesn’t remove the toxins. It’s best to avoid the water until the bloom passes to stay healthy. Let’s work to reduce extra nutrients entering our waterways.
How to Efficiently Avoid Contaminants in Drinking Water
Here are some effective methods for removing unwanted things from water:
- By Boiling:
Boiling water for just one minute is a simple way to make it safer. Fill a pot, heat the water until big bubbles form, then let it boil for 60 seconds. After turning off the heat, allow the water to cool before drinking or cooking with it. This short time at a boil can destroy many germs that could otherwise make you ill.
- Water Filters:
Using a water filter is another effective way to help catch contaminants your eyes can’t see. Filters are great for filtering out chemicals, lead, and other toxins that boiling can’t remove. However, for maximum reliability and effectiveness, it is essential to look for filters that are certified. Additionally, it is also necessary to maintain them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Bottled Water:
Bottled water is a convenient option when you are not sure about your tap water’s safety. Keep some bottles on hand for drinking, cooking, and making ice. Bottled water requires no boiling or filtering – it’s already clean and safe to use.
Whether making coffee or tea, mixing juices or foods, or staying hydrated, bottled water means clean drinking water without extra steps. It’s a simple solution to avoid concerns about what may be in your tap water. However, it is important to note that, bottled water can be an expensive water option for the people out there.
Final Words:
Drinking water brings life but also holds hidden threats. Germs, chemicals, and toxins can hide in water without notice. In this article, we have explained some of the most common dangers that can be lurking in your drinking water. Not just this, we also discussed multiple methods of how you can efficiently remove them from the water.
