DUNCAN, Okla. (AP) -- Halliburton Co. says it's found contamination in 18 water wells in Duncan and that it's taking steps to correct the problem.
Halliburton says in a news release the company detected perchlorate in the wells, which it describes as a colorless salt that could, in high enough concentrations, cause adverse health effects. Halliburton says perchlorate is not a carcinogen.
The company says the wells are located on Duncan's north side, where Halliburton used to perform government contract work involving removing and burning spent missile fuel contained in missile casings.
It's been 20 years since Halliburton conducted operations at the site but the company thinks the work probably contributed to the groundwater contamination.
Halliburton says it's supplying affected residents with bottled drinking water and a temporary water supply system if needed.
