**Boise's Water: City Lead Crashing Baby Lasers?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe tap water runs, clear and seemingly innocuous. But what if that clarity hides a silent threat? For residents of Boise, Idaho, the question of lead in their drinking water isn’t just a hypothetical concern; it’s a potential health risk, especially for the most vulnerable: infants and young children. We’re not going to sugarcoat it: lead is a neurotoxin, and even low levels can have devastating, irreversible effects on a child’s development.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets a maximum contaminant level goal for lead in drinking water at zero. This means any detectable level of lead is a concern. The EPA action level, the concentration that triggers treatment requirements, is 15 parts per billion (ppb). But here’s the crucial point: there is no safe level of lead in drinking water, particularly for children.
So, is Boise’s water safe? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t a simple yes or no. Boise’s water source is primarily groundwater, which is generally less susceptible to lead contamination than surface water. However, the problem isn’t usually the water source itself, but rather the aging infrastructure that delivers it to your home. Lead pipes, lead solder used to join copper pipes, and even certain brass fixtures can leach lead into the water, especially in older homes built before lead was phased out.
The Boise WaterShed Environmental Education Center provides information about Boise’s water quality, but it’s crucial to understand that their testing reflects the water leaving the treatment plant. What happens between the plant and your tap is your responsibility.
Here’s where things get actionable. You need to know if your water is safe.
Step 1: Understand Your Water Bill and Source
Your Boise water bill comes from Suez Water Idaho. Examine it closely. It should provide information about the source of your water. While Boise primarily uses groundwater, some areas might receive a blend of surface and groundwater, especially during peak demand. Knowing your source is the first step in assessing potential risks. Call Suez Water Idaho directly at (208) 362-7300 if you have questions about your water source or need clarification on your bill. Don’t rely on assumptions.
Step 2: Test Your Water for Lead – A Step-by-Step Guide
The only way to know for sure if your water contains lead is to test it. Don’t rely on city-wide averages or assurances. Your home’s plumbing is unique.
Here’s how to do it:
- Purchase a Lead Testing Kit: You can find EPA-approved lead testing kits online or at most hardware stores. Make sure the kit is certified to meet EPA standards. A reliable kit will cost between $20 and $50. Don’t cheap out on this. Your family’s health is worth the investment.
- Follow the Instructions Carefully: Each kit comes with specific instructions, and it’s crucial to follow them precisely. This usually involves collecting a “first draw” sample – the water that has been sitting in your pipes overnight.
- Timing is Key: The best time to collect your sample is first thing in the morning, before anyone uses the water. This ensures you’re testing the water that has been in contact with your pipes for the longest period.
- Flush the Tap (Optional, but Recommended): After collecting the first draw sample, let the water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes and collect another sample. This will give you an idea of whether the lead is coming from your pipes or from the service line connecting your home to the main water line.
- Send the Sample to a Certified Lab: Most kits include a prepaid mailer to send your sample to a certified laboratory for analysis. The lab will provide you with a detailed report of the lead levels in your water.
- Interpreting the Results: The lab report will tell you the lead concentration in parts per billion (ppb). Remember, the EPA action level is 15 ppb, but any detectable level is a concern, especially for infants.
Step 3: Understanding the Risks to Infants and Children
Lead exposure is particularly dangerous for infants and young children because their bodies absorb lead more easily than adults. Even low levels of lead can cause:
- Developmental delays
- Learning disabilities
- Behavioral problems
- Lower IQ
- Hearing problems
- Slowed growth
If you are pregnant or have young children, it’s imperative to take immediate action if you detect lead in your water.
Step 4: Remediation and Filtration Options
If your water test reveals lead levels above 15 ppb, or even if you’re concerned about any detectable level, here are your options:
- Short-Term Solution: Flushing: Before using water for drinking or cooking, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes. This can help reduce lead levels, but it’s not a permanent solution.
- Point-of-Use Filters: Install a water filter certified to remove lead at your kitchen sink. Look for filters that meet NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction. These filters can be faucet-mounted, pitcher-style, or under-sink systems.
- Point-of-Entry Filters: For a whole-house solution, consider installing a point-of-entry filter where the water line enters your home. This will filter all the water used in your house, but it’s a more expensive option.
- Replace Lead Pipes: If your home has lead pipes, the most effective solution is to replace them. This is a significant investment, but it’s the only way to eliminate the source of lead contamination. Contact a licensed plumber for an assessment and estimate.
- Contact Suez Water Idaho: Report your findings to Suez Water Idaho. They may be able to provide additional information or assistance.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
- Assuming New Homes are Safe: Even relatively new homes can have lead solder or brass fixtures that leach lead. Don’t assume your home is safe just because it’s not old.
- Ignoring the Instructions: Failing to follow the instructions on the lead testing kit can lead to inaccurate results. Read the instructions carefully and follow them precisely.
- Using Hot Water for Drinking or Cooking: Hot water leaches lead more easily than cold water. Always use cold water for drinking and cooking.
- Only Testing Once: Lead levels can fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to test your water periodically, especially if you have young children.
- Delaying Action: Don’t wait to take action if you suspect lead contamination. The sooner you address the problem, the better.
Navigating Local Resources in Boise
- Boise City Department of Public Works: Contact them for information about Boise’s water system and any ongoing lead remediation efforts.
- Central District Health Department: They can provide information about the health risks of lead exposure and resources for families with young children.
- Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ): IDEQ oversees water quality regulations in Idaho and can provide information about lead testing and remediation.
The Bottom Line
Lead contamination in drinking water is a serious issue, and Boise residents need to be proactive in protecting their families. Don’t rely on assumptions or assurances. Test your water, understand the risks, and take action to remediate any problems. Your children’s health depends on it.