Which of the following is considered an acceptable source of potable water?

City tap water is typically treated and monitored by municipal systems to meet safety and health standards, making it a reliable source of potable water. It undergoes regular quality checks to ensure it is free from harmful contaminants and suitable for drinking. This makes city tap water a widely accepted source of potable water in many areas.

Private well water can also be a source of potable water, but it requires careful management and testing. Unlike city sources, private wells do not have to adhere to the same rigorous federal and state regulations, leaving the responsibility of ensuring safe drinking water to the well owner. Therefore, while well water can be safe if properly maintained and tested, it is not as universally recognized as an acceptable source without proper validation.

River water and rainwater collected in containers often present various risks due to potential contamination from environmental factors, pollutants, and microbial pathogens. Such sources typically require extensive treatment to be considered safe for human consumption.