SPRINGFIELD, IL – Homeowners who obtain their drinking water from private wells in the Sandwich area are advised to have the water tested for possible groundwater contamination, the Illinois Department of Public Health today announced.

Test results of samples collected by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) of the city's municipal water wells revealed traces of a contaminant – trichloroethylene – that could also be present in the area's private wells.

Although trace amounts of trichloroethylene were found in Sandwich's source water, contaminants are removed at the city's water supply treatment plant and the water quality meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. Those who have questions about the city's drinking water supply can contact Joan Muraro, Illinois EPA at 217-785-7209.

Persons with private wells located within the area encompassed by the Sandwich city limits south of Third Street, extending east and south to the DeKalb county line, are encouraged to have their water tested by a private laboratory.

A list of private laboratories approved for testing can be obtained by calling the DeKalb County Health Department at 815-758-6673. Once samples have been analyzed, residents can call the health department for an explanation of the test results.

Exposure to trichloroethylene for long periods has been found to increase the risk of liver and kidney damage, and to impair immune system function and fetal development.

Notice of possible private well contamination is required by 2002 amendments to the Illinois Groundwater Protection Act.