Chemical Contaminants

Air Quality in Your Home National studies have shown that air pollution in our homes can be more of a health concern than air pollution outside. Indoor pollutant levels may, in fact, be many times higher than outdoor levels. There...

Carbon Monoxide in Your Home Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas you cannot see or smell. It is produced when liquid, solid or gas fuel is burned — such as natural gas, propane, oil, charcoal, wood and wood pellets...

Using Pesticides in Your Home Pests in and around our homes can be a nuisance. Pests include insects (for example, cockroaches, bed bugs, wasps, and garden bugs), rodents (for example, mice and rats), and weeds. The pesticides, or chemicals, we...

Learn how to make sure your well or spring is properly constructed and maintained to help keep your drinking water safe from contaminants. Find information and requirements for real estate transactions and rental properties.

Public drinking water systems are regulated by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation. However, the Health Department recommends testing your water for lead. Learn more about testing for lead and other public drinking water concerns.

Water contaminated with bacteria can make you sick. Learn how to disinfect your water before using it for drinking or cooking.

Any flood or major rainstorm that generates significant runoff could contaminate your water supply making it unsafe to drink. Find out what you need to do.

What You Need to Know About Coliform Bacteria in Drinking Water Coliform bacteria are one of the most common water contamination problems in private water systems in Vermont and throughout the U.S. Coliform is a family of bacteria common in...

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that public water systems use chlorine for disinfection at the water treatment facility.

PFAS, including PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid) are manufactured chemicals that stay in the environment for a very long time.