Recently, perchlorate has been detected in 18 residential wells in Duncan, OK. Perchlorate is a chemical commonly used in fireworks, gunpowder, and fuels. It can enter the environment when rockets explode or crash.
Halliburton, a major energy company located in Duncan, has acknowledged their involvement in the contamination of local wells. Perchlorate was detected along Osage Road, where the company burned fuels from missiles. Recently they began giving out bottled water to local residents and have stated that they will reimburse the residents for any medical fees related to perchlorate.
Perchlorates mainly affect the thyroid gland, preventing it from absorbing iodine. Unborn babies are more vulnerable than adults to the effects of perchlorate - there is a chance it could harm the developing nervous system of fetuses and infants. Adults often experience symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
EPA has been developing regulations for perchlorate usage. As of now, however, there are no regulations in place. Water is contaminated by numerous chemicals, many of which are not regulated. We should become more aware of what we are ingesting.
No comments:
Post a Comment