Arsenic poisoning and chronic arsenic exposure are easily preventable.

 

Knowledge - Identify your individual risk by testing your water source. 

See the list of certified laboratories capable of doing such analysis here. 
Action - Identify a treatment system or remediation technique amenable to your home and lifestyle. See options below for methods designed to diminish exposure to arsenic. 

 

Treatment Options

Considerations before choosing a treatment option
 
1.  
There are two species of arsenic found in drinking water: Arsenic 3 and Arsenic 5
Arsenic 3 is very difficult to remove from water and must be oxidized to Arsenic 5 prior to removal. For an additional charge a certified laboratory can determine the species of arsenic in your water and a treatment system can be implemented to convert arsenic 3 to arsenic 5. Typically chlorine is used for the conversion. 
2.
Two types of systems are available: point-of-use (at the tap) or point of entry (whole house)
The point-of-use system is typically installed beneath your kitchen sink and is meant for drinking water. This is a cheaper option, but your other water sources will be unaffected.
The point-of-entry system is more expensive since it will treat all the water entering your house. 
3. Determine if other constituents are in your water, such as iron or manganese. These may inhibit the treatment system, and thus should be removed prior to installation of a treatment system. 
 
 

Types of treatment systems

 
Treated water should be treated at least once a year. Untreated water should be treated at least every 3 years to ensure water is within safe limits.
 
Reverse osmosis: This system is commonly used as a point-of-use system. Typically requires pre-filtration to remove sand and grit that would otherwise clog the membrane. Advantage: Typically cheaper. Disadvantage: Considered ineffective at removing Arsenic 3.
 
Anion Exchange: These systems use the same principle as a water softener system. Chloride is present to convert the arsenic. This is a point-of-entry system. Advantage: Will remove Arsenic 3; requires minimal maintenance. Disadvantage: Point-of-entry systems are typically more expensive.
 
Using bottled water for drinking and cooking. This can be used when arsenic levels are lower. See this table for safe arsenic guidelines.