Nitrate Advisory in Central Ohio

Nitrate in the Water, What You Should Know

The Columbus Division of Water has issued a nitrate advisory June 8th and the advisory remains in affect (view the advisory here).  If you live, are traveling to the affect area you should know about this advisory.

The Columbus Medical Association advises us to "be aware of nitrate toxicity as a potential cause of methemoglobinemia, especially in young infants". Learn More

This map shows the affected areas

Some important things to know:

1. The Columbus Division on Water is warning people not to give tap water to infants below 6 months of age. This includes using it for anything the infant may consume (formula, juice, baby cereal..) 
2. A first instinct may be to boil the water.  However, boiling the water actually increases the nitrate level.  The Columbus Division of Water specifically warns, DO NOT BOIL THE TAP WATER.
3. According to the Columbus Division of Water, Healthy adults and older children can consume higher levels of nitrate because they have fully developed digestive systems.
4. Remember, Pregnant adults even if healthy should not consume the tap water while the advisory is going on. ODH is providing bottled water to infants and pregnant women who cannot obtain bottled water on their own and are in the area impacted by the high nitrate levels in Ohio. Learn more here

Even if you are not in the affected area it is always good to know what to do if it ever happens in your area.  Here are some FAQs on Nitrates in Water .

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