Garden City Issues Lead Advisory: What Residents Need to Know
Residents of Garden City, Michigan, are being advised to take a closer look at their drinking water after recent tests revealed elevated levels of lead. This has raised some eyebrows and led to important discussions about water safety in the local community.
Testing Results
The city conducted water testing in 31 homes and found that the lead levels at the 90th percentile measured a concerning 18 parts per billion (ppb). This number exceeds the Action Level of 15 ppb, leading officials to issue an advisory. The regulatory framework states that if more than 10% of tested homes show lead levels higher than 15 ppb, an advisory must be issued. In this case, four homes did exceed that threshold. Additionally, among the tested sites, it was known that 10 homes had lead service lines, which can significantly contribute to these elevated lead levels.
City’s Response
In light of these findings, the city is collaborating with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to address the situation. Since 2019, Garden City has already replaced 358 lead service lines as part of an ongoing effort to improve the safety of the drinking water supply. The city urges residents to get involved in looking out for lead in their own homes. If you suspect you might have a lead service line, it’s essential to inspect the pipes running into your home.
What Residents Can Do
For those needing help determining the materials their service lines are made from, the city encourages residents to schedule a service line inspection. Here are a few steps every household can take:
- Run Your Water: Flushing your water can help, especially if you have lead service lines. For homes without lead lines, let the water run for 30 seconds to two minutes, or until it gets cold. If you do have lead lines, it’s beneficial to run the water for a full five minutes to clear out any lead-containing water.
- Use Certified Filters: The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) suggests households use a lead-reducing drinking water filter, especially if you’re unsure if lead is a concern in your home. This includes homes with lead or galvanized plumbing, old fittings, or copper plumbing with lead solder from before 1988.
- Follow Filter Instructions: Whatever filter you choose, be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for it to work effectively.
- Drink Cold Water: Always prefer cold water for drinking, cooking, or preparing baby formula. Remember, boiling water won’t reduce lead levels!
Look Out for Your Home
If you’re using a filter, choose one that meets NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction and NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for particulate reduction. It’s also a good idea to regularly clean your faucet aerators to eliminate any debris that may have gathered over time.
In conclusion, Garden City residents are urged to stay informed and proactive concerning the health of their drinking water. With measures being taken by city officials and actions residents can take, it’s possible to ensure the safety of water for all households. Remember, being aware is the first step towards making informed decisions about your health and wellbeing!
