Important Notice from Marshfield Utilities
MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – In 2020, Marshfield Utilities discovered elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes with lead services. This notice is issued bi-annually to the public. Lead exposure can lead to serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Please carefully review the following information to learn how you can minimize lead exposure in your drinking water.
Action for Concerned Residents
If you have a copper service or have updated your service since 2020, you have nothing to worry about. However, if you suspect your home may be affected, visit Marshfield Utilities Lead Service Replacement Project to check.
Health Effects of Lead
Lead can cause severe health issues if it enters your body, whether through drinking water or other sources. It can damage the brain and kidneys, and hinder the production of red blood cells responsible for oxygen transportation. The most vulnerable to lead exposure are infants, young children, and pregnant women. Studies have linked lead exposure in children to lowered IQ. Adults with kidney problems and high blood pressure are more susceptible to low levels of lead. Lead can also be stored in bones, potentially affecting later stages of life. During pregnancy, lead from the mother’s bones can impact the child’s brain development.
Reducing Exposure to Lead in Water
- Flush Your Pipes: Run water before using it for drinking or cooking. If you have a lead service line, let the water run for 3-5 minutes; if not, run it for 30-60 seconds. Stagnant water in your home’s pipes may contain more lead. Some interior piping and plumbing fixtures can also contain lead.
- Use Cold Water: Opt for cold water for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula, as hot water can absorb more lead from pipes.
- Avoid Boiling: Boiling water does not reduce lead levels and may even increase them.
- Test Your Water: The only way to ascertain if lead levels have reduced after flushing is through testing. If flushing doesn’t decrease lead levels, consider other options. Many labs can test your water for lead. Contact accredited labs such as AgSource Laboratories at 715-898-1402 or Northern Lake Service Inc. at 715-478-2777.
- Take Further Measures if Necessary: If tests reveal high lead levels even after flushing, consider treating your water or finding an alternative source.
- Child Testing: If you’re concerned about your child’s exposure to lead, contact your local health department or doctor to arrange for lead testing.
For further assistance, contact us at 715-898-2187, email us at [email protected], or visit the MU website.
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Author: News Desk
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