City of Syracuse Launches Lead Water Educational Materials

The City of Syracuse Department of Water has developed new lead water public education materials to help residents understand the risks of lead exposure from pipes and steps they can take to protect their families. Developed in coordination with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), the resources are a part of the City’s ongoing commitment to public health and safety.  

The City’s educational materials provide guidance on identifying potential sources of lead, steps to reduce exposure and what is being done.  

 

Where to Find Materials:  

 

 

Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children can have decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can lead to new learning and behavior problems or exacerbate existing learning and behavior problems. The children of women who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy can have increased risk of these adverse health effects. Adults can have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or nervous system problems.  

 

The City of Syracuse Water Department treats drinking water with orthophosphate, a food-grade additive approved by the FDA and recognized by the EPA for reducing lead levels by coating lead service lines. The City continues to monitor water quality, is conducting regularly scheduled sampling collection as required by the EPA, is actively replacing lead lines during projects, and is developing a plan to replace all known lead service lines ahead of the EPA’s deadline.  

 

For more information about lead safety and the City’s ongoing commitment, visit syr.gov/lead-free-syracuse or contact the Department of Water at 315-448-8354.