WAYNE, MI – A Lead Action Level Exceedance (ALE) was declared last week in the City of Wayne after more than 1 in 10 routine water samples from homes in the city tested higher than 15 parts per billion for lead. An ALE does not mean that all homes in the City of Wayne are affected. However, the Wayne County Health Division and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommends that children under 18 and those who are pregnant only consume tap water that is run through a lead-reducing water filter in communities where an ALE has been declared.

The Wayne County Health Division is offering qualifying residents free water filters and blood lead testing at its Wayne, MI location at 33030 Van Born Rd. on Wednesday August 2nd from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Lead is a metal found naturally in the environment. Lead can be found in paint, dust, soil, plumbing, household items, imported goods and materials used in jobs and hobbies. Almost everyone has been exposed to lead at some time in their life. Lead can be harmful to a person's health, but it is particularly hazardous to children and during pregnancy.

Lead can enter drinking water when it comes in contact with lead service lines or with lead plumbing inside your home. Steps to take to reduce lead in water:

• Use a lead-reducing water filter

• Run water before drinking or cooking to help flush lead-containing water from pipes, especially if the water has not been run for a prolonged period

• Do not use hot water for drinking or cooking

• Clean your faucet aerators

• Consider replacing older plumbing, pipes, and faucets that may add lead to water.

For more information about lead, its harms, and ways to mitigate exposure visit http://www.waynecounty.com/lead

To receive a free water filter, you must be:

• A resident of the City of Wayne

• Living in a home with OR frequently visited by children under 18 or pregnant persons

• Enrolled in Medicaid or WIC OR unable to afford a filter

The Wayne County Health Department will be on site:

Wednesday, August 2, 2023

11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Health Administration Building

33030 Van Born Road

Wayne, Michigan

For more information, please call: 1-866-610-3885 or visit: waynecounty.com/lead. To have your water sample tested, visit Michigan.gov/EGLElab for a list of certified lead testing labs.