Chico’s Wildfire Season: What’s Really Coming Out of Your Tap?

Every summer, Chico, Paradise, and Butte County brace for wildfire season. But let’s be honest, the “season” barely takes a break anymore. Smoky skies and talk of evacuations used to be rare. Now they’re as common as a drive through Bidwell Park.

Most of us spend fire season focused on the big stuff, keeping our families safe, watching out for our homes, and helping neighbors when we can. Once the immediate danger passes, though, it’s easy to overlook what’s left behind in our water. Wildfires can have a big impact on Chico’s water supply, sending ash, debris, and even harsh chemicals straight into the rivers and reservoirs that supply Chico homes.

When Smoke and Ash Meet Your Water

After a wildfire, the damage isn’t just on the hillsides. Rain and runoff sweep everything left behind, washing ash, soot, firefighting chemicals, into our creeks, wells, and public water systems. These contaminants don’t just stay put. They move for miles, sometimes ending up in kitchen sinks and water bottles across Chico.

Here’s the thing: the water coming out of your faucet might look clear, but not all problems can be seen or tasted. After a wildfire, a range of contaminants can end up in your home’s water supply, some of which are tough to filter out without the right system.

What’s Actually in Your Water?

• Ash and Soot: Tiny particles that might change the taste or smell of your water, and can sometimes sneak past basic filters.
• Heavy Metals: Lead and arsenic, released from burned soil or old pipes, can find their way into the water supply.
• PFAS and Other Chemical Contaminants: Known as “forever chemicals,” these come from firefighting foam and runoff. They’re a growing concern in Chico’s tap water and aren’t easily removed by standard filters.
• VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds): Released when plastics and other synthetic materials burn. Not something you want in your glass. 

It’s Not Just a “Summer Problem” Anymore

Neighbors on Nextdoor and around Chico say the same thing: wildfire season never really ends. Droughts keep the risk high year-round, and more people are just plain worn out from worrying about what’s next. After recent fires like the Park Fire, local water authorities and the State Water Board didn’t wait; they told everyone to test their water and, in some cases, boil it before using it. 

So, What Can You Do About It?

You shouldn’t have to guess what’s in your water. That’s why Culligan of Chico is here, not just as the pros, we’re your neighbors, we live here and work here,  we know what Butte County water is up against.

Here’s How We Roll in Chico

• Certified Water Testing: As we stated above, we check for the stuff you can’t see, like heavy metals, PFAS, chemical residues, the things basic test strips miss. If it’s lurking, we’ll find it.
• Advanced Filtration: Our systems are built for Chico water. Ash, debris, stubborn chemicals? Our filters eat that for breakfast.
• Real Local Support: No call center runaround. You get neighbors who know the drill,
  We live here too.
   

Curious what’s coming out of your tap? Book a free, certified home water test today: Schedule here!

Your Peace of Mind Starts at Home

Unfortunately, wildfires aren’t going away, but you can take control of the mess left behind and ensure safer water quality. Let’s keep your water as safe and clean as it looks. Because here in Chico, looking out for each other isn’t just a saying, it’s a way of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do wildfires affect Chico’s tap water?

Wildfires can send ash, soot, heavy metals, and chemicals from firefighting foam into Chico’s rivers, reservoirs, and even private wells. These contaminants may change the taste, smell, or safety of your tap water, even if it looks clear.

Is Chico’s water safe to drink after a wildfire?

Local water utilities and the State Water Board recommend testing your water after wildfire events. While public systems work hard to keep water safe, some contaminants can slip through, especially in private wells or older plumbing.

What are PFAS, and why should I be concerned in Chico?

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals found in firefighting foam and industrial runoff. Called “forever chemicals,” they can linger in water for years. Recent studies show PFAS are an increasing concern in wildfire-prone regions like Chico.

How do I protect my home’s water during wildfire season?

Start by scheduling a certified water test to find out what’s really in your tap. If contamination is found, a whole-house water filtration system can help remove ash, chemicals, and other wildfire-related pollutants. Culligan of Chico offers free, certified water testing and local expertise, so you can keep your family’s water safe all year long.

Ready to find out what’s in your water? Book your free home water test with Culligan of Chico today.