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The Tubbs Fire (2017) and Camp Fire (2018) are the first known wildfires where widespread drinking water chemical contamination was discovered in the water distribution network and not in the source water after the fire. In both disasters, drinking water exceeded state and federal government‐defined exposure limits for several volatile organic compound (VOC) contaminants (e.g., benzene at 40,000 µg/L [Tubbs] and >2,217 µg/L [Camp]). This work outlines factors that influence wildfire‐induced drinking water quality threats based on the findings from these two fires and explores related scientific and policy issues. For example, certain plastics in the network may serve as a primary VOC source through in situ plastic pyrolysis. Depressurization of the distribution network likely transported contaminated water that subsequently contaminated undamaged infrastructure. As wildfires at the wildland–urban interface are likely to occur more frequently, greater scientific evidence is needed to guide agency responses that will better protect public health.

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Sustainability, water conservation, water efficiency, and green infrastructure have led to significant decreases in the quantity of water used in buildings. In addition, changes in water usage, building design, plumbing material selection, and high‐efficiency fixtures contribute to water age and potential chemical and microbiological contamination. Through a literature review and stakeholder workshop with representatives from the public and private sectors, this article explores the current state of the science on plumbing safety. Results indicate that links between water usage, design, and material selection and water quality must be established with data‐driven methods to support risk assessment and risk management decisions. Of particular interest is a better understanding of the contribution of water usage and piping materials to the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens. This article will help further efforts to evaluate these pathogenic risks, a critical need as drinking water regulations have primarily focused on exposure through ingestion.

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