For several years now, filtered water bottle filling stations have become popular additions in many facilities including office buildings, community centers and schools. Besides the obvious intent to help reduce our dependency on plastic water bottles, which often end up as landfill waste, these filtered water stations offer a slew of health benefits to those who use them – especially our children.
While the importance of hydration to maintain good health isn’t breaking news, the link between hydration and learning is overtly impactful. When students are properly hydrated, they are much more likely to experience enhanced energy levels and brain function as water helps decrease the frequency of headaches, anxiety and fatigue. This fact alone makes it imperative that we provide our children with clean, free drinking water during their days at school.
A key benefit of filtered water bottle filling stations for schools is their ability to provide safe drinking water. Unfortunately, all tap water is not created equally. Luckily, filtered water bottle filling stations are equipped with high-performance filters and cooling systems, making them capable of removing common tap water contaminants such as chlorine and lead.
Another key benefit that these stations offer is the ability to provide clean water to everyone without the substantial risk of spreading germs and viruses. The machine’s touchless feature helps eliminate the risk of spreading or contracting a disease through surface contact. Also, most fill stations are designed to prevent the build-up of grime and standing water, which eliminates mold growth and other bacteria from settling in.
Where applicable, it is also recommended to install a water bottle filling attachment (ie. a Brita faucet attachment) as part of classroom sinks. With most elementary students confined to one classroom, it is important to have purified water that is easily accessible for the students and teachers.
As schools continue to re-open, CPL encourages both our clients and Practice leaders to continually refer back to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Guidance for Reopening Buildings After Prolonged Shutdown or Reduction Operation. It is recommended that all water fixtures get thoroughly flushed, and faucet aerators are removed and cleaned before the school year begins.
CPL’s K-12 Practice team understands just how essential it is to provide students with safe, clean drinking water. Whether at home or in a school environment, making quality water easily accessible gives children a greater incentive to hydrate more often, which inevitably contributes to greater energy and productivity. Click here for more information on the many benefits of providing access to drinking water.
Furthermore, over the last two weeks, our K-12 Practice team has committed to only drinking water in an effort to save money on coffee, lattes, sodas, juices, etc. All money saved has been donated to The Water Project.
