By André Averion, Communications Manager

Published September 4, 2024.

The City of Grand Prairie issued a warning Sept. 3 for residents north of I-20 to avoid using tap water after firefighter foam was found in the water supply, potentially contaminating the entire system. 

According to a press release from Mayor Ron Jensen, the foam potentially entered the system after firefighters responded to a fire inside a building at the Great Southwest Industrial District Tuesday night around 1 p.m.. At approximately 9 p.m. that day, contaminants were discovered due to a backflow incident. The City has since begun distributing bottled water primarily in Lone Star Park and City Hall as they await instruction from the federal environmental agency, the Texas Commissions of Environmental Quality.

The process thus far includes waiting for test results to confirm full contamination, and if positive, the city will have to flush, clean and refill any affected water towers. 

The city has advised that tap water should not be used for anything except for flushing, and that boiling the water will not clean it. This means residents and pet owners should avoid drinking, washing, brushing teeth or cooking with tap water.

To remain cautious, the Grand Prairie Independent School District (GPISD) has closed all schools for Wednesday. Classes and extracurricular activities are scheduled to resume as normal on Thursday until further notice.

There is currently no timeline given by the city, which has yet to disclose when the water is expected to be safe again, although crews are working overnight to secure water safety. According to Jensen, the city has not received any reports of serious medical concerns related to the water advisory.

The key concern is fire foam in the system of the water. While an effective fire suppressant, it contains Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) which when consumed in large quantities can be linked to certain cancers, liver damage and developmental issues in children. It is not currently known if there is enough PFAS in the water system to pose an immediate risk, however it may add to already long term exposure caused by food packaging, processing and cookware.

It is highly recommended that residents only use bottled water until the advisory is lifted. Neighboring cities have also confirmed they have not been impacted by the potential contamination. Other bottled water distribution stations will be established at specific locations throughout the city. Residents can dial 972-237-8400 if they have any further questions or need access to nearby temporary water distribution centers.