Lead remains in Morris water
Service line replacement may help future tests
The Morris Water Department wants to remind residents that slightly elevated levels of lead have been found in the water and some steps should be taken to reduce the chance of excess exposure.
Water Superintendent Kevin Murphy reported last fall that some water samples collected in September showed elevated levels of lead.
Of 30 samples, 16 had no lead and eight others had levels below the maximum allowable of 15 parts per billion. The six other samples had higher levels, resulting in an overall test result of 16.7 parts per billion.
Prior to 2008, Morris had been in compliance with lead levels in the water since September 1997.
“There are so many variables, it is hard to know what caused the change,” Murphy said at the time.
Lead in water usually comes from old pipes made of lead, lead solder used on copper pipes or from the service pipe that brings water to the house from the main. Homes in the older parts of town are most likely to have lead in the water because they were built using lead water pipes or lead-based solder.
The city is currently replacing the lead service lines in town. Owners of older homes should take steps to reduce the levels of lead in any water they consumer
Pregnant women and families with young children should be especially careful about exposure to lead, Murphy said.
High lead levels can interfere with the development of the brain in children.
One simple step to reduce lead levels is to run the water for 15 or 30 seconds, especially in the morning. Water that has been in the pipes all night can pick up lead.
Other tips are to always use cold water for cooking or any type of consumption, and to install a filter that will remove lead from the water. Boiling will not remove lead from the water.
Replacing any lead plumbing fixtures could be considered, although it would probably be expensive.
Murphy said individuals can call the water department at (815) 942-2205 to learn how to get their water tested for lead.