Wildfires can impact water quality in homes and businesses throughout a fire zone because of:
- Contamination of source water
- Compromised pipes and plumbing systems
- Thermal degradation of plastic pipes
People in impacted areas should always follow local governmental guidance on whether water is safe to drink or use during or after wildfires.
To help our members better understand how to serve their customers during and after local alerts, WQA offers some resources below.
What Water Treatment Professionals need to know about Wildfires
This WQA document is intended to help Water Treatment Professionals understand how wildfires can impact water quality. It includes information on the importance of testing for volatile organic compounds.
WQA Guidance for Sanitizing Residential Drinking Water Treatment Systems
Water treatment equipment should be disinfected after a wildfire in cases of microbial contamination. Water Treatment Professionals should follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to sanitize water treatment equipment. If manufacturer instructions are unavailable, this document can help.
Testing water for VOCs
It is essential to test drinking water for volatile organic compounds after a wildfire before making any treatment decisions. High concentrations of VOCs can be very localized within the distribution system. Most certified drinking water laboratories can provide VOC testing, and you can search for certified laboratories on EPA’s website.
WQRF brochure on Boiled Water Notices
Customers who are under a Boiled Water Notice can get answers to their questions in this brochure prepared by the Water Quality Research Foundation.
More Questions?
WQA’s Technical Affairs Department is available to serve members who need more information or have questions. WQA members can call 630-505-0160 for assistance.