Watertown, WI

LEAD EXPOSURE: SOURCES, AFFECTS and WAYS TO REDUCE EXPOSURE.

Your health and your family’s health can be hurt by lead.

Everyone can be affected by lead, but pregnant women and children under the age of 6 are most at risk.

The main health concerns from lead exposure are damage to the nervous system and brain. The kidneys, red blood cells, and reproductive system can also be affected at higher exposures to lead.

If you are worried that you or your family has been exposed to lead, talk to your doctor about getting a blood lead test.

Lead can come from a number of sources in the home.

Most lead comes from old paint, as well as other things like toys, food, and soil. Information about these sources can be found at:  https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/lead/index.htm

Water can also be a potential source of lead.  The City of Watertown Water Department follows and meets all requirements of the EPA & DNR pertaining to testing for lead in the water, please see link below for information regarding the City’s water quality.  http://www.ci.watertown.wi.us/departments/docs/Water_Quality_Report_2014.pdf

You can test your water for lead. Contact a certified water testing laboratory to find out how to do this.

Individuals can reduce their exposure to lead in many ways.

You can reduce your exposure to lead in water by taking these steps:

• Flush your pipes before using water.
• Never use water from the hot-water tap for cooking or drinking.
• Install a reverse osmosis water purification system designed to remove lead.

It is important to take steps to fix other lead sources in your home. For more information see: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/lead/index.htm

http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/tips/water.htm