At Marin & Murphy Law Firm, we follow the developing situation regarding PFAS water contamination in the Winter Garden Water Department. With PFOS detected at 9.9 ppt, residents may be rightfully concerned about their health and well-being. With experience involving PFAS cases, we understand the gravity of this issue and its potential implications. In this article, we'll explore the details of the contamination, the risks associated with PFAS exposure, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. Let's examine the specifics of the Winter Garden Water Department's detection.
PFAS Contamination at the Winter Garden Water Department: What You Need to Know
The Winter Garden Water Department, a Florida water provider, has detected concerning levels of PFAS chemicals in its water supply. According to recent testing, samples collected on February 27, 2024 from the Palmetto St. POE revealed PFOS at 9.9 ppt. This level exceeds the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) of 4 ppt for PFOS, as finalized in April 2024 but not enforceable until 2031. As a water provider, Winter Garden Water Department is responsible for ensuring safe drinking water for its customers.
As personal injury lawyers, we’re deeply concerned about the potential health risks posed by this PFAS contamination in Winter Garden Water Department’s water supply. PFOS and PFOA are part of the PFAS family of chemicals, which have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental problems. The detected levels exceed the safe limits set by health authorities, raising serious concerns for the well-being of Winter Garden Water Department’s residents. We’re committed to helping affected individuals understand their legal options and seek justice.
The detection of PFAS water contamination, with PFOS and PFOA levels exceeding EPA limits, is deeply concerning and requires immediate action. We urge Winter Garden Water Department to be transparent about their findings and take swift measures to address this serious issue. There is overwhelming evidence showing how PFAS is cancer-causing, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.
To verify this data, visit the EPA’s UCMR 5 Data Finder and search for Winter Garden Water Department. Data is updated quarterly.
Data Methodology Disclosure
To ensure transparency regarding the “recent research and testing data” mentioned on this page, we are providing details on how this information was obtained. The data is sourced from the following authoritative reports:
- EPA’s UCMR5 Testing Program: The Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5), administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), collects nationwide data on unregulated contaminants in drinking water, including PFAS, to support future regulatory efforts. Explore the UCMR5 Data
The information from the EPA form the basis for the claims made about water quality and testing results on this page. We invite readers to explore these reports for a comprehensive view of the data and its significance.
What is PFAS and How Does It Affect Health?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made chemicals found in products like firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics. Known as “forever chemicals,” they resist breaking down in the environment and the human body. This leads to bioaccumulation, where PFAS builds up over time in organs like the kidneys and liver. The CDC states that most people in the U.S. have PFAS in their blood, primarily from contaminated drinking water, food, and air. In Florida, where water contamination is a growing concern, understanding these health impacts is vital.
Linda Birnbaum, former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Toxicology Program, has said, The data linking PFAS to cancer is very clear.
This underscores the urgency of addressing PFAS exposure, especially in communities near industrial sites or military bases where contamination is more common.
Health Risks and Protective Steps
PFOS and PFOA, part of the PFAS family, are recognized as probable human carcinogens by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) [1]. Extensive research links prolonged exposure to kidney cancer [2], testicular cancer [2], ulcerative colitis [3], liver damage [1], and immune system dysfunction [3]. The levels detected in Winter Garden Water Department’s water supply—PFOS at 9.9 ppt and PFOA at not detected ppt from the Palmetto St. POE on February 27, 2024—exceed the EPA’s Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) of 4.0 ppt for both PFOS and PFOA [4].
Residents must demand full disclosure from Winter Garden Water Department and access water quality reports via their official channels. Those with private wells should pursue PFAS testing through local health departments or the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, as unregulated sources face heightened contamination risks in this region.
References:
- [1] EPA. (2024, November 25). Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS. https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas
- [2] National Cancer Institute. (2020, September 23). PFAS and Cancer. https://dceg.cancer.gov/research/what-we-study/pfas
- [3] CDC/ATSDR. (2022, September 21). PFAS Health Effects. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/index.html
- [4] EPA. (2023). Drinking Water Regulations for PFAS. https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
PFAS’s Connection to Cancer
We’re concerned about PFAS’s link to serious health problems, especially certain cancers. Studies suggest that exposure to PFAS increases the risk of testicular cancer, kidney cancer and ulcerative colitis.
Let’s look at what the research shows about these troubling connections.
PFAS and Testicular Cancer
Growing evidence suggests a link between exposure to PFAS chemicals and an increased risk of testicular cancer.
We’re deeply concerned about the PFOS contamination detected at 9.9 ppt in the Winter Garden Water Dept’s water system in Florida, particularly at the Palmetto St. POE sampling site.
As personal injury lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact that PFAS water contamination can have on people’s health. Testicular cancer is a severe condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
PFAS and Ulcerative Colitis
In addition to testicular cancer, studies also point to a potential connection between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of developing ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. The Winter Garden Water Dept in Florida has detected PFOS, a type of PFAS, at a level of 9.9 ppt in their water system at the Palmetto St. POE sampling location.
This contamination detection raises concerns about the potential health impacts on residents exposed to PFAS through their drinking water. Ulcerative colitis can cause severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life.
As research continues to uncover the links between PFAS water contamination and various health issues, communities must stay informed and advocate for clean, safe drinking water.
PFAS and Kidney Cancer
Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of developing kidney cancer, and we’re dedicated to raising awareness about this critical public health issue.
The Winter Garden Water Dept, a Florida water provider, detected PFOS, a type of PFAS, at 9.9 ppt from the Palmetto St. POE on 2/27/2024. This water contamination is alarming, as studies have shown that PFAS exposure can lead to a higher incidence of kidney cancer.
We’re committed to informing the public about the potential health risks associated with PFAS in drinking water.
What Should You Do?
If you’re concerned about the presence of PFAS in your drinking water, there are several steps you can take to protect your health and well-being.
First, stay informed about the PFAS contamination in your area by following updates from your local water provider, such as WINTER GARDEN WATER DEPT (3 WPS) in Florida. They’ve detected a PFOS level of 9.9 ppt at the Palmetto St. POE in their water system.
Consider installing a water filtration system that removes PFAS compounds from your drinking water.
Additionally, you can join our Facebook group to stay updated on the latest developments and connect with others affected by PFAS contamination.
Stay Informed With Us
We’re committed to informing you about the latest developments in PFAS water contamination and providing resources to help protect your health.
The detection of PFOS at 9.9 ppt in the water provider’s sample from Palmetto St. POE is concerning. Please stay informed by following our updates on this water contamination issue.
Our team is dedicated to investigating the extent of the contamination and holding responsible parties accountable.
Together, we can work towards ensuring safe drinking water for our communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Health Risks Associated With PFAS Exposure?
We’re concerned about the health risks linked to PFAS exposure, which may include increased risk of certain cancers, developmental issues in children, and interference with hormones and the immune system, based on current scientific research.
How Long Has PFAS Contamination Been Present in the Water System?
We are still determining exactly how long the PFAS contamination has been present in this water system, but the detection details show it was found on 2/27/2024. We’ll continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as they become available.
About the Author: PFAS Lawyer Matthew Marin
Attorney Matthew Marin is a seasoned legal professional with a deep commitment to environmental justice and client advocacy, particularly in cases involving water contamination. A graduate of Roger Williams University School of Law, Matthew has been practicing law since 2008, focusing on environmental law and personal injury cases. With over 15 years of experience, he has honed his skills in litigating complex cases related to water quality and safety, earning a reputation for meticulous case preparation and tenacious representation. Matthew has successfully handled numerous cases involving PFAS in water supplies, securing favorable outcomes for his clients and contributing to the remediation of drinking water. His approach is characterized by thorough research, strategic planning, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Known for his compassionate approach, Matthew takes the time to understand each client’s unique situation, ensuring they feel heard and supported throughout the legal process. As member of the American Association for Justice and the National Trial lawyers, Matthew’s extensive knowledge and experience inform his work on the legal aspects of the AFFF & PFAS MDL litigation, water contamination, and environmental protection.
Marin & Murphy Law Firm is not currently accepting new PFAS claims. This page is general information about water quality and public health, not legal advice, and reading it or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. The firm is licensed in South Carolina, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut; its PFAS matters are handled with co-counsel who maintain local counsel arrangements nationwide. Matthew T. Marin, SC Bar #102771, 997 Morrison Drive, Suite 200, Charleston, SC 29403.