This past week, residents in Lexington, Ashland, and Mansfield received notices from their local government offices regarding “Lead Status Unknown” service lines. This issue has sparked concerns across the community, as many are now wondering about the safety of their drinking water and what steps to take next. If you’ve received one of these notices or are simply looking to protect your household, this guide is here to help.
What Does “Lead Status Unknown” Mean?
The City of Mansfield’s notification explains that “Lead Status Unknown” service lines are those where the materials used in the water service line are not definitively identified. These lines may contain lead, galvanized materials requiring replacement, or non-lead substances. A service line is the pipe that connects your home or building to the main water supply.
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires public water systems to inform residents about potential risks in their water service lines. If the material in your service line is uncertain, the city is obligated to notify you, ensuring transparency and public safety.
Why Is Lead Exposure a Concern?
There is no safe level of lead in drinking water. Exposure to lead, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant individuals, infants, and young children, can lead to severe health effects. These include:
• Cognitive impairments, such as decreases in IQ and attention span in children.
• Developmental delays and learning or behavior problems.
• Increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney damage in adults.
Even brief exposure can have lasting consequences, making it crucial to take immediate steps to reduce your risk.
Steps to Reduce Lead Exposure in Your Home
If you’re concerned about lead in your water, there are several steps you can take:
‣ Flush Your Tap Regularly
Let your water run for a few minutes if it has been sitting unused for more than six hours. This helps clear out any lead that may have leached into the water from your pipes.
‣ Use Cold Water for Consumption
Always use cold water for cooking, drinking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water can dissolve lead more quickly, increasing contamination risks.
‣ Replace Lead-Containing Plumbing Fixtures
If your home has old faucets, valves, or pipes that may contain lead, consider replacing them with modern, lead-free materials.
‣ Have Your Water Tested
The City of Mansfield offers routine lead sampling, and their website provides additional resources for testing. Residents can also consult local certified labs for further analysis.
What is the City of Mansfield Doing about It?
The City of Mansfield is actively addressing the issue of “Lead Status Unknown” service lines by:
• Conducting routine water sampling to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Developing an Identification Plan to inventory all public and private service lines by 2027.
• Sharing updates and resources through their online hub
These efforts aim to create a comprehensive database of service line materials, ensuring that all residents are informed and protected.
How Clearwater Systems Can Help
At Clearwater Systems, we understand the importance of clean, safe drinking water for your family. With decades of experience in water treatment, we provide solutions tailored to address concerns like lead contamination Our water filtration systems are equipped to remove harmful substances, ensuring that every drop you drink is safe and clean.
If you’re unsure about the quality of your water, our team can guide you through:
• Testing your water for lead and other contaminants.
• Installing advanced filtration systems certified to remove lead.
Take Action Today
If you live in Lexington, Ashland, or Mansfield and have received a notice about your service line, now is the time to act. Protecting your household from lead exposure doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking simple steps and utilizing resources from the City of Mansfield and Clearwater Systems, you can ensure your family’s safety and well-being.
For more information, visit the City of Mansfield’s Lead and Copper Hub, the EPA’s Learn About Lead, or contact Clearwater Systems