Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine announced recently how the state will test for potentially harmful chemicals in the state’s drinking water. The man-made chemicals, known as PFAS, have been turning up in drinking water and some foods across the U.S. and DeWine wants to make sure residents in Ohio are kept safe. The chemicals are used in products ranging from carpeting, cookware, microwave popcorn bags and firefighting foam.

Governor, DeWine told reporters the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency will coordinate the testing of nearly 1,500 public water systems serving various communities, schools, daycare facilities and mobile home parks within the state.

If the chemicals are detected, the EPA will work with public systems to reduce their levels, along with the state Health Department who will also work with private water system owners on ways to reduce exposure and install treatment systems.

The state expects to complete sampling of public water systems by the end of 2020.