Don't Drink from Garden Hoses

Don't let children drink from a garden hoses. They are sometimes made from a vinyl stabilizer which uses lead. Too dangerous.

By JOHN

Editor's Note: Apparently, some hoses are safe for drinking, and some are not.

The Fairfax County Water Authority FAQ has this to say:

Question: Is it safe to drink water from a garden hose?

Answer: Substances used in vinyl garden hoses to keep them flexible can get into the water as it passes through the hose. These substances are not good for you or your pets. There are hoses made with "food grade" plastic that will not contaminate the water. Check your local hardware store for this type of hose.

This was news to me.