Your Hose May Be Hazardous to Your HEALTH!

When water flows backwards through the water supply system, it is called backsiphon-age or backflow.  When that water is accidentally mixed with hazardous chemicals or bacteria, it can be dangerous...even fatal!
 
The danger comes when the hose -- any hose -- is connected to a harmful substance.  If the pressure in the water main line drops while your hose is submerged in polluted or contaminated water, the water (and whatever is in it) could be sucked back into your pipes and your drinking water supply.
 
Water pressure drops can happen when firefighters battle a nearby blaze or when repairs are made due to a broken water line.  Some harmful substances you should be wary of are the chemicals used to fertilize and kill weeds on your lawn.  The cleansers used in your kitchen and bathroom could be hazardous if swallowed, as could bacteria in the water from your pool or waterbed.
 
Fortunately, keeping your water safe from these contaminants is easy.  Take the following precautions to protect your drinking water:

• Never submerge hoses in buckets, pools, tubs or sinks.
• Always keep the end of the hose clear of possible contaminants.
• Do not use spray attachments without a backflow prevention device.  The chemicals used on your lawn are toxic and can be fatal if ingested.
• Do buy and install inexpensive backflow prevention devices for all threaded faucets around your home.  They are available at hardware stores and home improvement centers.