Lead in water poses serious health risks, especially for children. Protect your family by testing water, using certified filters, running cold water before use, and avoiding hot tap water for cooking. During summer, be aware that swimming pools can contain lead from plumbing or source water—teach children not to swallow pool water and ensure proper pool maintenance.
The Silent Threat in Your Water
Lead is a powerful neurotoxin that attacks the brain and nervous system without warning. You can’t see, taste, or smell it in your water. Yet its effects—especially on children—can last a lifetime.
Did You Know? The EPA and CDC agree there is no safe level of lead in the human body. Any exposure, particularly in children under six, can cause permanent damage.
For children, even low-level exposure can result in:
- Learning disabilities
- Reduced IQ scores
- Behavioral problems
- Developmental delays
Adults aren’t immune either. Regular exposure leads to kidney damage, cardiovascular issues, and reproductive problems.
WHERE DOES LEAD HIDE IN YOUR HOME?
Unlike natural water sources, lead rarely comes from the original water supply. Instead, it enters your water after leaving the treatment plant.
The Usual Suspects:
Lead service lines connecting homes to water mains | Old fixtures and faucets made before 2014 | Solder on pipes in homes built before 1986 | Corroded plumbing releasing lead particles
When water sits in these materials—especially overnight or during vacations—lead concentrations rise significantly.
PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY: SIMPLE STEPS THAT WORK
START WITH TESTING
The only way to know for certain if lead lurks in your water is through testing. Karl Environmental provides professional water testing services that give you peace of mind and actionable results.
DAILY HABITS THAT HELP
Morning routine? Run cold water for 1-2 minutes before using it. This simple habit flushes out water that’s been sitting in pipes overnight collecting lead.
Cooking dinner? Never use hot tap water for cooking or drinking. Heat accelerates lead dissolution, making hot water typically contain higher lead levels than cold.
THE FILTER FACTOR
If tests reveal lead, install filters certified specifically for lead removal (look for NSF/ANSI 53 certification). Remember that not all filters remove lead—choose wisely and maintain them properly.
SUMMER SWIMMING: THE OVERLOOKED LEAD RISK
As temperatures climb, families flock to swimming pools. Few realize these recreational waters can harbor unexpected lead dangers.
How Lead Enters Pool Water
Swimming pools connect to the same water systems as our homes. This means lead-containing plumbing components, contaminated source water, and pool equipment can all contribute to lead in pool water.
The Special Risk for Children
Children typically swallow more water while swimming than adults realize—especially young swimmers learning the basics. For frequent swimmers, this creates another potential exposure route beyond drinking water.
🔍 Expert Insight: While chlorine kills germs, it doesn’t remove lead and other heavy metals. Proper pool filtration and water balance are essential for reducing metal contamination.
SUMMER SAFETY STRATEGIES
For Home Pools: Test your pool water annually, especially if your home has older plumbing. Karl Environmental offers specialized testing for recreational waters.
For Public Pools: Look for clear, not cloudy water. Pool surfaces should be clean, not slippery or slimy. Ask management about their water testing protocols.
For All Swimmers: ✓ Shower before and after swimming ✓ Teach children not to swallow pool water ✓ Stay hydrated with filtered water while swimming
WHEN TO CALL THE PROFESSIONALS
Some situations demand expert intervention:
- Water test results showing any level of lead
- Homes built before 1986 with original plumbing
- Visible corrosion on pipes or fixtures
- Pregnant women or children under six in the home
Karl Environmental Group specializes in comprehensive lead assessment and mitigation services. Our experts help families identify potential lead sources and develop effective protection strategies tailored to your unique situation.
With proper testing, awareness, and precautions, your family can enjoy safe water for both drinking and recreation all summer long.
For professional water testing and lead assessment services, contact Karl Environmental Group today at 1-800-527-5581 or visit karlenv.com.
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