The water in Zehdenick may temporarily only be used for washing and personal hygiene. The reason is an elevated concentration of bromate, which health authorities consider potentially carcinogenic. The municipal utilities have informed daycare centers and schools so that no tap water is consumed there.
“The drinking water is not suitable for consumption until further notice,” states a warning from the district of Oberhavel. It must also not be used for cooking, preparing food and drinks, or rinsing food. Special care should be taken with infants and young children to ensure they do not swallow water while bathing.
The cause of the elevated bromate levels is still unclear. Bromate normally forms during water treatment with ozone, but this process does not occur at the Zehdenick waterworks. The municipal utilities have commissioned additional laboratories to conduct tests and are coordinating with the health department.
Source: www.spiegel.de
