Harford County Schools Warn Against Drinking Contaminated Water

BALTIMORE – Two schools in Harford County, Fallston High and Harford Technical High, are facing issues with contaminated water, prompting officials to advise students against drinking it. A letter sent to families on August 13 highlighted the presence of concerning levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the water supply. These manmade chemicals, known for their resistance to grease, oil, water, and heat, have been widely used in various products since the 1940s. The Harford County school district explained that PFAS can be found in groundwater, which may affect water wells used by the schools. In response to the situation, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has begun testing water wells in schools as part of a proactive measure following new EPA regulations. Although the EPA does not mandate action until 2027, the MDE has recommended that schools with positive test results take immediate precautions. The letter from the school district emphasized the importance of informing families about the water quality issues. It stated that some schools, including Fallston High and Harford Technical High, have recorded PFAS levels that warrant strong recommendations against consuming water from the wells. The district is committed to keeping families updated as they navigate this public health concern and work towards ensuring the safety of their students.