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Environmental Health

Welcome to the Brookfield Board of Health's resource page on environmental health. Environmental health focuses on the relationships between people and their environment, promoting healthy and safe communities. Here, we provide information on various environmental health topics and how you can protect yourself and your community.

Air Quality

Poor air quality can affect your health, especially if you have asthma or other respiratory conditions. To stay informed about air quality in Brookfield:

  • Check Air Quality Index (AQI): Visit the EPA AIR FLOW WEBSITE for current air quality information.
  • Reduce Outdoor Activities: On days with poor air quality, consider reducing outdoor activities, especially if you have respiratory conditions.

Water Quality

Safe drinking water is essential for good health. To ensure your water is safe:

  • Know Your Water Source: If you use a private well, have it tested regularly for contaminants.
  • Report Concerns: If you notice any changes in the taste, color, or smell of your water, report it to the water department

  • The Brookfield Water Department is committed to providing you with clean potable drinking water.  The quality of your drinking water is very important. Please notify the Brookfield Water Department at 508-867-2930 Ext 17 regarding any water quality questions or concerns.

  • In the event of an emergency, please contact the Massachusetts State Police Dispatch Center 508-867-1170

    Water Commission meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 11am in the Town Hall, unless otherwise posted.

Lead Poisoning Prevention

Lead exposure can be harmful, especially to children and pregnant women. To prevent lead poisoning:

  • Test for Lead: Have your home tested for lead if it was built before 1978.
  • Prevent Exposure: Use lead-safe practices when renovating older homes and ensure children's play areas are free from lead-based paint.

Vector-Borne Disease Prevention

Vectors like mosquitoes and ticks can transmit diseases. To protect yourself:

  • Use Insect Repellent: Apply repellent when spending time outdoors.
  • Remove Standing Water: Eliminate standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
  • Check for Ticks: After being outdoors, check yourself, your children, and pets for ticks.

Safe Disposal of Hazardous Waste

Proper disposal of hazardous waste is important to prevent pollution and protect the environment. To safely dispose of hazardous waste:

  • Identify Hazardous Products: Look for labels with words like "toxic," "corrosive," or "flammable."
  • Please visit our web page on Hazardous Waste 

Climate Change and Health

Climate change can impact health in various ways, from heat-related illnesses to changes in disease patterns. To stay informed and take action:

  • Stay Informed: Follow reliable sources for information on climate change and its impact on health.
  • Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Consider ways to reduce energy consumption, such as using energy-efficient appliances and reducing car travel.

Protecting environmental health is a community effort. By staying informed and taking action, we can create a healthier and safer environment for everyone in Brookfield.