Thursday, February 28, 2013

Sheridan Receives Another Drinking Water Violation

Sheridan has received a water violation for the entire year of 2012. The city has levels of disinfection byproducts that are above drinking water standards. The city's level of trihalomethanes exceeded the allowable level for the 12 month period ending December 31, 2012. This is not an emergency and customers do not need to use an alternative water supply. However, if you have specific health concerns, you should consult your doctor. 

Disinfection byproducts are formed when chlorine combines with naturally occurring organic matter in the water. Disinfection is necessary to inactivate harmful microbes such as bacteria and viruses which may be present in untreated water. The maximum contaminant level is based on long-term exposure of drinking two quarts of water a day for 70 years. Some people drinking water containing excessive trihalomethanes may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

The University of Rolla is testing the water to see if there can be a way of disinfecting without adding the amount of chlorine that causes trihalomethanes. For more information, contact the City of Sheridan or Water Superintendent David Parman.

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