Boise Babies: City Water Hiding Leaded Sunscreen?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air in Boise is crisp, the foothills beckon, and the sun shines bright. But beneath the surface of this idyllic setting, a hidden danger might be lurking in your home’s plumbing, potentially amplified by a seemingly harmless summer staple: sunscreen.
The problem? Lead.
Lead contamination in drinking water, especially in older homes with lead pipes or lead solder, is a serious concern. And recent research suggests that certain sunscreen ingredients can interact with lead, increasing its absorption into the body. This is particularly worrying for children, whose developing brains are highly vulnerable to lead’s toxic effects.
This isn’t about scaremongering; it’s about empowering Boise parents with the knowledge to protect their families. Let’s dive into the specifics, focusing on practical steps you can take right now.
First, let’s talk about the water. Boise’s water source is primarily groundwater, which is generally less corrosive than surface water. However, older homes, especially those built before 1986, may still have lead pipes or lead solder connecting copper pipes. This is where the risk lies.
The City of Boise Water Renewal Services conducts regular water quality testing, and their reports are publicly available. Check their website for the latest data on lead levels in the city’s water supply. While the city’s overall water quality might meet federal standards, the lead levels inside your home can vary significantly depending on your plumbing.
So, how do you know if your water is safe? The only way to be sure is to test it.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to testing your water for lead in Boise:
Contact the City of Boise or the Central District Health Department: They may offer free or low-cost lead testing kits. Call the City of Boise at (208) 608-7000 or Central District Health at (208) 321-2222 to inquire.
Purchase a certified lead testing kit: You can find these at local hardware stores like Lowe’s on Franklin Road or Home Depot on Federal Way. Make sure the kit is certified by the EPA. A reliable option is the PRO-LAB Lead Water Test Kit, often available at these stores.
Follow the instructions carefully: The most important step is to collect a “first-draw” sample. This means taking the sample first thing in the morning, after the water has been sitting in your pipes overnight (at least six hours). This will give you the most accurate reading of the lead levels in your home’s plumbing.
Send the sample to a certified laboratory: The testing kit will include instructions on how to package and ship the sample.
Interpret the results: The EPA’s action level for lead in drinking water is 15 parts per billion (ppb). If your results are above this level, you need to take action.
Now, let’s address the sunscreen connection. Some studies suggest that certain ingredients in sunscreens, particularly those containing avobenzone and octinoxate, can react with lead in water, potentially increasing its absorption through the skin. While more research is needed, it’s a good idea to be cautious, especially when bathing young children.
Here’s how to choose lead-free sunscreen alternatives readily available in Boise:
Look for mineral-based sunscreens: These sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient, which are considered safer and less likely to interact with lead.
Check the ingredient list: Avoid sunscreens containing avobenzone, octinoxate, oxybenzone, and octocrylene, especially for children.
Consider brands available at local stores:
- Badger Balm: Available at Whole Foods Market on Broadway Avenue and Natural Grocers on Milwaukee Street. They offer a range of mineral-based sunscreens with simple, natural ingredients.
- Thinkbaby/Thinksport: Often found at Target on Milwaukee Street and Fred Meyer stores throughout Boise. These are popular choices for babies and children, known for their effectiveness and safety.
- Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen: Available at Walgreens and CVS pharmacies. Their “Sensitive” formula is a good option for those with sensitive skin.
Read reviews: Check online reviews to see what other parents in Boise are saying about different sunscreen brands.
Beyond testing your water and choosing safer sunscreens, there are other steps you can take to create a lead-safe home environment for your family in Boise:
Flush your pipes: Run your cold water tap for several minutes before using water for drinking or cooking, especially if the water has been sitting in your pipes for several hours. This helps to flush out any lead that may have leached into the water.
Use cold water for drinking and cooking: Hot water is more likely to leach lead from pipes.
Clean your faucet aerators regularly: These can trap lead particles.
Consider installing a water filter certified to remove lead: Look for filters that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction. You can find these at local hardware stores or online. A popular option is the Brita Water Filter Pitcher, readily available at Walmart and Target.
If you have lead pipes, consider replacing them: This is the most effective way to eliminate the risk of lead contamination. Contact a licensed plumber in Boise for an assessment and quote. Companies like Harris Plumbing and Heating or Diamond Heating and Cooling can provide these services.
Be aware of lead paint: If your home was built before 1978, it may contain lead paint. Chipping or peeling lead paint can create lead dust, which can be inhaled or ingested. If you suspect lead paint, have it tested by a certified lead inspector.
For Idaho-specific resources on water safety and lead poisoning prevention, contact the following:
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ): They provide information on water quality and testing. Their website is https://www.deq.idaho.gov/.
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare: They offer resources on lead poisoning prevention and testing for children. Their website is https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/.
Central District Health Department: They provide local resources and information on lead poisoning prevention in the Boise area. Their website is https://cdhd.idaho.gov/.
Don’t wait. Take action today to protect your family from the potential dangers of lead contamination. Test your water, choose safer sunscreens, and create a lead-safe home environment. Your children’s health depends on it.