Read Protecting Your Family From Lead (EPA). Evaluate all sources of lead, especially lead paint in homes built before 1978. Take recommended measures to minimize sources.
If your home was built prior to 1986 it may have leaded solder joints, regardless of whether the lateral is lead.
- Use only cold water for drinking and cooking. Let it run 1 to 2 minutes until cold before drinking it.
- Obtain a water filtration device, faucet mount, or a pitcher with a charcoal filter. These items will reduce or remove lead from the water that is used for consumption.
- It's important to check the product to be sure it has been certified for lead removal by National Safety Foundation International. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for operation and maintenance.
- Read carefully about how frequently the filter should be changed, and what the cost of replacement filters are prior to purchasing a particular device. Installation of a faucet mounter filter unit is easy and does not require a plumber. These items screw into the base of the faucet.
- Faucet mounted filter units are available for $10 from the Menasha Health Department. Replacement filters are available for $4 each.
The Menasha Health Department is committed to assisting families with expectant mothers and/or very young children. This also includes households where very young children are frequent, such as grandparents homes, or in-home day care settings.
Please contact the Menasha Health Department Environmental Health Sanitarian, Todd Drew, RS, at (920) 967-3520 or tdrew@menashawi.gov for specific information related to your home, and recommendations on how to reduce risks from lead. You may also contact Todd regarding other potential environmental health issues that may be present in your home, such as: radon, asbestos, and indoor air quality. Our goal is to help families live in a healthy home.
