Press Release from DuPage Water Commission: March 16, 2020
The DuPage Water Commission wants to remind its customers that tap water is safe to use and drink. Also, through proactive planning, the Commission has contingency plans in place to ensure continuity of operation during this pandemic. All customers will see their water continue to be available; no disruptions are expected due to the spread of the coronavirus. The Commission, through its treatment processes, routinely removes and inactivates or kills viruses. DuPage Water Commission Chairman Jim Zay stated, “I am concerned about the number of residents purchasing bottle water because of fears related to the current pandemic and want to reassure them that tap water is safe to drink.”
The Commission’s process follows established EPA regulations with treatment requirements for public water systems that prevent waterborne pathogens and viruses, including the coronavirus. These treatments include filtration (performed at Chicago’s Jardine Water Purification Plant) and disinfectants (performed at both the Jardine Plant and the Commission Pumping Station) to remove or kill pathogens and viruses.
Chlorine that is used as the disinfectant is extremely effective at killing viruses.
The Commission also works in partnership with public health agencies and other water agencies and organizations to share the latest information and best practices. Additional information and reference from the EPA and CDC are listed below:
According to the EPA, the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking-water supplies. And based on the evidence currently held by the organization, the risk to water supplies is low.
The American Water Works Association (AWWA), the largest organization of water supply professionals in the world, has also released the following statement: “COVID-19 is a type of virus that is particularly susceptible to disinfection and standard treatment and disinfectant processes are expected to be effective.”
The EPA has posted a helpful list of coronavirus FAQs, such as:
- Do I need to boil my water?
- No, it is not required as a precaution against COVID-19.
- Do I need to buy bottled water or store drinking water?
- No, as there are no indications COVID-19 is in the drinking water supply or will affect the reliable supply of water.
- Is tap water safe to use for hand washing?
- Yes, and according to the CDC, washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.
For those with questions or concerns, please visit the following links:
About the DuPage Water Commission
The DuPage Water Commission (DWC) is the second largest water supply system in the State of Illinois, providing potable water to 28 DuPage County municipalities and agencies. DWC operates a 185 MGD pumping station and 30 MG reservoir at its main facility in Elmhurst, Illinois. From there, the water flows to the member communities through a distribution system that includes 5 standpipes, 84 metering stations, 205 miles of pipeline, and over 650 valves.