A common bi-product of chemicals used in fire extinguishers, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used in various industries for decades. Unfortunately, these chemicals have made their way into Georgia’s water supply and are causing concern among residents and health officials.

What are PFAS?

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that are resistant to heat, water, and oil. They have been used in many consumer and industrial products, including non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant textiles, and firefighting foam.

Health Risks of PFAS

PFAS have been linked to several health problems, including cancer, liver and thyroid disease, and low birth weight. They are also known to stay in the human body for a long time, making exposure to them a serious concern.

PFAS Contamination in Georgia’s Water Supply

PFAS have been found in the water supply of several communities in Georgia, including Augusta, Savannah, and Warner Robins. In some cases, the levels of PFAS in the water are several times higher than the recommended limit set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

What Can be Done to Address PFAS Contamination?

The EPA has not yet set a federal standard for PFAS in drinking water, but several states, including Georgia, have set their own standards. However, there is still much work to be done to address PFAS contamination in the state’s water supply.

In order to address this issue, Georgia officials should consider the following steps:

• Increase Testing: More testing needs to be done to determine the extent of PFAS contamination in Georgia’s water supply.
• Develop Treatment Methods: Effective treatment methods need to be developed to remove PFAS from contaminated water.
• Improve Awareness: More needs to be done to educate the public about the dangers of PFAS and the steps they can take to reduce their exposure.
• Implement Regulations: Strict regulations need to be implemented to limit the use of PFAS in consumer and industrial products.

As partners with the Water Awarness Program in Atlanta, we strive to help bring about change in our community one home at a time. This starts by offering a free water test for every home owner in Georgia. Regardless of location or source of water, we travel to give you testing results for what’s coming out of your own tap. We believe that in offering this opportunity, families may be able to better glean specific-to-you solutions for whatever may be in the water coming into your home, and that we would be able to help our communities grow more knowledgeable in the pollutants that are lurking in the water.

If you want to know what’s in your water, or have general questions about what we can do as a community to help create change, contact us and find out what is going on in your water.