What are the red stains that appear on my clothes and in my plumbing fixtures?
This is iron and manganese staining. Although it is harmless it often is a nuisance from a cosmetic standpoint. The District is now treating its water to prevent this from happening. However, sometimes when there is a fire or we are flushing hydrants you will notice a color problem.

Should I buy bottled water?
That is your choice. Our water is often safer than bottled water. Not until recently has the bottled water industry had to comply to the same water quality standards that public water systems have had to. If you fill a jug with our water and place it in the refrigerator it will be cold and taste better than directly out of the tap.