Base Issues Drinking Water Advisory

  • Published
  • By 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
  • 88 ABW/PA
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE --  Wright-Patterson Air Force Base officials are responding to a requirement from the Ohio EPA to provide alternate drinking water in Area A to pregnant and lactating women, and infants. 

This action is in response to the new lifetime health advisory for Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) issued by the U.S EPA. 

The results are from samples collected on base in Area A on April 19, 2016 which showed PFOS levels of 110 parts per trillion.  The new U.S. EPA standard is now 70 ppt.  Prior to the new standard, Wright Patterson was in compliance and within prescribed limits.

Base officials are recommending those women that are pregnant, lactating or use water for infant formulas to use alternative water sources until further notice.  Water distribution for those identified will be available at Fire Station #1 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 21.


WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB
DRINKING WATER ADVISORY

The Wright Patterson Air Force Base's Public Water System's Area A has detected levels of Perfluorooctane Sulfanate (PFOS) above the USEPA Health Advisory Level

PREGNANT/ LACTATING WOMEN AND INFANTS SHOULD CONSIDER USING ALTERNATIVE WATER

Results from water samples collected on April 19, 2016 showed PFOS levels of 110 parts per trillion (ppt). This is above the USEPA Health Advisory Level of 70 ppt.


What should I do?

· The Ohio Department of Health recommends pregnant and lactating women use an alternative source of water.

· The Ohio Department of Health recommends parents use formula that does not require the addition of water or use bottled water when mixing formula.

· According to USEPA, adults, other than pregnant and lactating women, and non-bottle fed children can drink the tap water. U.S. EPA considers PFOS a concern to fetuses and infants. However, if you have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your doctor.

· Boiling, freezing, or letting water stand does not reduce the PFOS level.

What is being done?

Nothing has changed in the water system, however on May 19, 2016 the EPA changed the standard that drinking water is measured against.  PFOS is a chemical used in some fire suppressant foams that were previously used on the base. Base officials are recommending those women that are pregnant, lactating or use water for infant formulas to use alternative water sources until further notice.  Water distribution for those identified will be available at Fire Station #1 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. beginning Saturday, May 21.

For more information, please contact at the Installation Public Affairs Office at 937-522-3252.