DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (AP) - State environmental regulators are trying to figure out what caused the water to become contaminated in bucks County.
A public drinking well in Doylestown was closed last month after investigators found elevated levels of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The chemicals were used in firefighting foams, nonstick cookware, carpeting and furniture. They've been linked to cancer, liver damage and thyroid disease.
Officials say the drinking water is now safe.
Officials say the state will investigate whether there have been manufacturing facilities or major fires in the area. They will also reach out to private well owners in the area -- including nursing homes and day cares -- to offer well tests and provide bottled water to residents.
Two weeks ago, U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-13th District) asked Congress to look into contaminated water surrounding more than 600 Department of Defense bases across the country. That includes the area around Horsham Air Guard Station.