Lead
The Water Works' initial sampling and monitoring program in 1992 demonstrated that samples for lead were above the action level established by the Lead and Copper Rule.  The Water Works subsequently created a program to optimize corrosion control for the piping within the distribution system and the piping within your home or business.  This program consists of raising the pH of the water to about 7.5 to make it less corrosive to pipe materials, and of adding a blend of poly-orthophosphate to the water.  The poly-orthophosphate blend used at the Larchmont and Rye Lake Stations inhibits corrosion by creating a coating on pipe walls and helping to prevent lead and copper from entering the water.  The Water Works activated this treatment process in September of 1999.  At the Lake Street Station, the zinc orthophosphate performs a similar function.

Infants and young children are typically more vulnerable to lead in drinking water than the general population.  Infants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical or mental development.  Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities.  Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure.

It is possible that lead levels at your home may be higher than at other homes in the community as a result of materials used in your home's plumbing.  If you are concerned about elevated lead levels in your home's water, you may wish to have your water tested and flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using tap water.  Additional information is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).