Lead Exposure Mitigation

Practical strategies to reduce lead exposure in your home and community

Protecting Your Family from Lead in Water

While the long-term solution to lead in drinking water is the replacement of lead service lines, there are several immediate steps you can take to reduce your family's exposure to lead from drinking water.

Flush Your Pipes

If water hasn't been used for several hours, run the cold water for at least 5 minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. This helps flush out any lead that may have accumulated. Research supports this as an effective strategy.

  • Run water until it becomes cold
  • Do this first thing in the morning
  • Do this after returning from work or school
  • Take a shower or do laundry to help flush pipes

Use Water Filters

Install NSF-certified filters specifically designed to remove lead. These can be installed at the tap or as pitcher filters. The EPA provides guidance on selecting appropriate filters.

  • Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction
  • Replace filters according to manufacturer's instructions
  • Consider whole-house filters for comprehensive protection
  • Pitcher filters can be an affordable option

Use Cold Water for Consumption

Always use cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water dissolves lead more quickly than cold water, as shown in this study and this research.

  • Never use hot water from the tap for cooking or drinking
  • Heat cold water for cooking rather than using hot tap water
  • Boiling water does not remove lead and can concentrate it
  • Clean faucet aerators regularly to remove trapped particles

Test Your Water

Have your water tested for lead by a certified laboratory. This will help you understand your risk and determine appropriate actions. Chicago residents can request a free water test kit through 311.

  • Contact your water utility for testing options
  • Use certified labs for accurate results
  • Test after making any changes to plumbing
  • Consider periodic testing, especially with young children

Replace Lead Service Lines

The most effective long-term solution is to replace lead service lines. Check with the City of Chicago's Lead Service Line Replacement Program about assistance for replacement.

  • Determine if you have lead service lines
  • Contact licensed plumbers for replacement options
  • Inquire about financial assistance programs

Maintain a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C can help reduce lead absorption in the body, according to the EPA's guide on fighting lead poisoning with a healthy diet.

  • Calcium-rich foods: dairy, leafy greens, fortified foods
  • Iron-rich foods: lean meats, beans, fortified cereals
  • Vitamin C: citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers
  • Regular meals help reduce lead absorption

Chicago's Lead Service Line Replacement Program

The City of Chicago has initiated programs to address lead service lines. These include:

  • Equity Lead Service Line Replacement Program: Provides free lead service line replacement for eligible low-income residents.
  • Homeowner-Initiated Lead Service Line Replacement Program: Waives permit fees and provides a free water meter for homeowners replacing their lead service lines.

For more information on these programs, visit the City of Chicago's Lead in Water page.

Additional Mitigation Strategies

For Parents and Caregivers

  • Ensure children eat regular meals, as lead is absorbed more on an empty stomach
  • Have children tested for lead exposure, especially if you live in an older home
  • Discuss any concerns about lead exposure with your pediatrician

For Schools and Childcare Facilities

  • Implement water testing protocols
  • Install lead-removing filters on drinking fountains and kitchen taps
  • Flush water systems after periods of non-use (weekends, holidays)
  • Educate staff about lead risks and mitigation strategies
  • Communicate test results and mitigation efforts to parents

Community Advocacy

  • Support policies for lead service line replacement
  • Advocate for increased funding for lead remediation programs
  • Participate in community awareness campaigns
  • Share information with neighbors, especially those with young children
  • Attend community meetings about water quality issues

Take Action Today

Protecting your family from lead exposure starts with awareness and simple preventive measures. Learn more about where lead exposure commonly occurs.

Common Exposure Areas