Rockford area PFAS concerns stem from two neighborhoods
A new United States Environmental Protection Agency rule is now in effect to reduce the amount dangerous chemicals, known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), from entering drinking water supplies across the country, including the Rockford area, where they've been found in high levels in two areas in recent years.
Last year, following Rockton's Chemtool explosion, higher than acceptable levels of PFAS were found in the Wright Kiles Blackhawk Subdivision, a 63-home residential area just east of the explosion site.
In February 2021, through sampling conducted through the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, high levels of PFAS were detected in treated drinking water from the Family Manufactured Home Community, near the corner of Sandy Hollow Road and 11th Street in Rockford.
According to recent EPA testing, nearly 70 million people in the United States are exposed to PFAS. But because only about a third of the nation's public well systems have been tested, the agency estimates that about 200 million are exposed.
"The public health impacts of PFAS are not completely understood; however, ongoing exposure to PFAS should be reduced to lessen the total body burden over the life of the individual," said Winnebago County Health Department Administrator Sandra Martell. "The greatest risk is to developing brains, neurological systems, and immune systems including infants and young children and pregnant women."
Rockford areas of concern
According to the EPA, U.S. Fire Pump, firefighter contractors for Chemtool, used PFAS-containing firefighting foam for about three hours to help suppress the fire after the explosion at the plant specialized in making greases, additives and other fluids such as industrial cleaners, corrosion inhibitors and metalworking fluids.
After evidence of PFAS contaminants were discovered in the drinking water at the Family Manufactured Home Community in south Rockford, the county conducted door-to-door canvassing to determine how residents got their drinking water — from private wells or from the city's water supply.
Officials determined that 55 residents in the neighborhood had private wells and were advised to test their wells for PFAS.
Family Manufactured Home Community has since worked with the IEPA and City of Rockford to connect to city water.
Officials continue to monitor both areas for evidence of PFAS and risk to area residents.
What are PFAS?
Because they are extremely slow to break down, PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" and are used in the manufacturing of food packaging, household products like carpeting, upholstery, clothing and non-stick cookware; firefighting foam, dental floss, cosmetics and shampoo.
Why are they dangerous?
Over time, PFAS can build up in people, animals and the environment and make their way into drinking water supplies. Prolonged exposure to the chemicals at high levels can increase the risk of serious health conditions like cancer, heart problems and thyroid issues.
What is the EPA's latest rule on PFAS?
As of Jan. 1, companies must not manufacture product using 329 PFAS without a complete EPA review and risk evaluation. Without the new rule, officials say manufacturers could have resumed using PFAS without any regulation.
How do I know if my well has PFAS?
It is recommended that individuals whose residences are not on city water, test their drinking water for PFAS. There is no odor or color associated with PFAS, and the only way to know if you well water contains PFAS is to test for it.
"Municipal community water systems routinely monitor for PFAS contaminants and reduce exposure through a variety of treatment strategies" Martell said. "While PFAS are concerning, there are strategies that can be taken at every level to reduce the negative health impacts."
What is the best way to reduce my consumption of PFAS?
Experts say the best way to reduce exposure is to connect to municipal water system or get a carbon water filter or home water treatment system. Filtration systems range from low-cost carbon filter water pitchers, point-of-service water filters for faucets and refrigerators, and whole-home filtrations system.
Reducing or avoiding products and sources that may contain PFAS is also a way to reduce exposure.
Jim Hagerty covers business, growth and development and other general news topics for the Rockford Register Star. Email him at jhagerty@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Rockford area is no stranger to dangers posed by 'forever chemicals'
