AWWA encourages households to identify, eliminate lead pipes, plumbing
DENVER (PRWEB) May 10, 2018 -- As Drinking Water Week continues, the American Water Works Association is encouraging consumers to identify and eliminate lead service lines and lead in home plumbing.
Lead presents health concerns for people of all ages, particularly pregnant women, infants and young children. If consumers live in homes where lead is in contact with drinking water, they may be at risk of exposure.
A study from the Association showed that lead service lines may be present in between six and 10 million homes in the United States. Water providers can adjust water chemistry to reduce the potential that lead will dissolve into water, and households can also take steps to reduce possible exposure. Still, AWWA advises that lead be removed where possible.
To determine if lead is present in pipes or plumbing, homeowners or tenants can consult with a licensed plumber or their local water utility. If lead components are found, it's recommended that households explore options for replacing them. Also, households can find out more about their water quality by having it tested by a certified laboratory.
“As long as lead is in contact with the water we drink, some risk remains,” said AWWA Chief Executive Officer David LaFrance. “Water providers treat water to high standards of quality, but we all can play a role in keeping it safe at the tap. Let’s all work together to get the lead out.”
More information about lead in drinking water is available on DrinkTap.org.
About Drinking Water Week
For more than 40 years, AWWA and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week, a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together in recognizing the vital role water plays in daily lives. Additional information about Drinking Water Week, including free materials for download and celebration ideas, is available on the Drinking Water Week webpage.
Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most important resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.
AWWA Communications, AWWA, http://www.awwa.org, +1 303-734-3455, [email protected]
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