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Duncan Oklahoma Residents Well Water Contaminated by Halliburton
Duncan, Oklahoma residents were recently informed that a former Halliburton test site on the North side of town was responsible for contaminating drinking water wells in the area. Perchlorate, a non-carcinogenic toxin that originated at the site, contaminated well water to such a degree that Halliburton was forced to inform the community and provide bottled water to drink while an assessment and cleanup take place.
Halliburton issued a statement saying that the contamination of the wells “is the result of burning missile fuel in a project that ended 20 years ago.” The company has promised to “reimburse health costs to those affected by the contamination,” and that it plans to “work closely with the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality." (AP Texas News)
Of course, for those already affected by the presence of perchlorate in their drinking water, this is not much consolation. If you are a resident of Duncan, Oklahoma and your drinking water has been contaminated, tell us your story and learn more about your legal rights.
What is Perchlorate?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), perchlorate is “both a naturally occurring and man- made chemical that is used to produce rocket fuel, fireworks, flares and explosives.” (EPA) If you enter a laundry facility, you might detect a sweet smell; which is likely due to the presence of perchlorate in bleach and laundry detergents.
Perchlorate Impedes Various Body Functions
- Perchlorate’s primary health hazard is what it can do to the thyroid. It “disrupts the thyroid’s ability to produce hormones needed for normal growth and development.” (EPA)
- People with preexisting thyroid conditions, as well as “pregnant women and their fetuses,” (EPA) are especially vulnerable if they drink water that is poisoned with perchlorate.
- Perchlorate interferes with the metabolic process as well as “mental function in adults.” (CDPH)
- Perchlorate doesn’t only exist in water. It can be found in “beef, lettuce, milk, berries and other agricultural products.” (EPA)
Weitz & Luxenberg Can Help Residents of Duncan, Oklahoma who have been affected by the presence of perchlorate.
The Environmental Pollutants Unit at Weitz & Luxenberg is comprised of an accomplished team of attorneys, each with a wealth of experience. For legal advice and a free consultation, please fill out the form on this page. There is no obligation, nor is there a fee, unless we secure a favorable verdict or settlement on your behalf.
Acknowledgements:
AP Texas News:http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/tx/7661323.html
EPA: http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants/unregulated/perchlorate.cfm#one
California Department of Public Health (CDPH):http://www.cdph.ca.gov
/certlic/drinkingwater/pages/Perchlorate.aspx
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): http://www.epa.gov/
see also:
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Perchlorate health effects hurt these three groups the mostPerchlorate health effects now threaten Duncan Oklahoma says Halliburton. Has your well water been polluted? Find out more about your legal rights.
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