Just Back From A Holiday? Skipping This Task May Ruin Your Tap Water

A tapEnvironment secretary Steve Reed recently announced changes to how the Labour government will handle problems with the UK water system, including the “sewage scandal.” It follows a 60% surge in sewage leaks last year. But on a smaller scale, food safety expert, Mark McShane from Food Hygiene Certificate, has warned Brits to pay attention to the tap water in their own homes ― especially after travelling. “Most UK tap water is still safe,” McShane said, “but that doesn’t mean we should be blind to the risks – especially as regulations lag behind new contaminants.”He added, “Most people only worry if their water looks or smells strange. But there are several silent risks, from bacterial contamination to PFAS chemicals, that can go completely unnoticed without testing or awareness.”One of those “silent” issues can arise after a short stay away.Why should I pay attention to my tap water after a holiday?When you don’t run water through your taps, bacteria like Legionella and E. coli can build up, the expert said. This is more likely in guest bathrooms and other rarely-run faucets, and new builds are not exempt from risk.E coli can cause diarrhoea and vomiting that can sometimes be severe, while Legionella can lead to a lung infection called Legionnaires’ disease, which sometimes requires antibiotic treatment in hospital.So, McShane warns, “If a tap hasn’t been run in a week, run it for at least two minutes before using it for food or drink.” This will help to flush out any built-up bacteria, and even if this isn’t present, it can remove sediment too.The same goes for your shower, PA Housing says on their site.What are the signs something’s wrong with my tap water? McShane shared that water which has a sweet, musty, or chemical taste can be a sign something’s wrong (this could mean your pipes are corroding), as can low water pressure that comes and goes (sometimes caused by leaks or air bubbles).Water which appears “milky” when you first turn your tap on, meanwhile, can suggest a burst main. Contact your water supply company if you notice any strange tastes or smells in your water or if your water pressure is low and/or interrupted. They must reply in 10 working days, Citizens’ Advice says.Related...Could UK Tap Water's 'Forever Chemicals' Lead To France-Style Bans?UK Gardeners Urged To Pee In Watering Cans For 2 Surprising BenefitsThe 1 Talk Divorced Parents Need To Have Before The Summer Holidays

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