In general, you should not wade in, swim, or drink river, lake, ocean or pond water. Do not drink water from a well, especially a private well. Drinking or swimming in these bodies of water can lead to serious infections such as cryptosporidium. Cryptosporidium is a parasite that infects the intestines. It is a water-borne disease and is a common cause of diarrhea.
Municipal tap water is safe to drink. Local health departments will issue warnings about water safety. If such a warning is issued in your area, follow the instructions for boiling water. Bottled water may be safe.
To be certain that your drinking water is safe, you can:
