While lead and copper are rarely detected in most drinking water supplies, it is the Village’s goal to keep residents informed about water quality. Below are some facts to consider with regards to your drinking water:
- Lead and copper in drinking water are primarily caused by corrosion of materials and components associated with service lines, home plumbing materials or fixtures.
- Some household plumbing fixtures may contain lead or copper, corrosive waters which may pick-up lead and copper from household plumbing pipes after entering a home.
- The Village currently purchases all its water from the City of Highland Park which treats its source water from Lake Michigan.
- Lincolnshire water is regularly treated and monitored in order to keep the corrosive index as low as possible for distribution.
- The majority of water mains that distribute water throughout the Village are ductile iron pipe.
- To date, the utility department has not identified any lead service lines in the Village water system.
- The Village has been in full compliance with all IEPA regulations as it relates to drinking water. Every three years the Village samples water from selected homes and analyzes each for lead and copper content.
Additional information concerning your drinking water quality is available here.
The following is a list of actions that can be taken in order to minimize your risk of exposure.
- Run your water to flush out lead. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes or until it becomes cold before using water for drinking or cooking.
- Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula. Do not cook with or drink water from the hot water tap; lead dissolves more easily into hot water. Never use water from the hot water tap to make baby formula.
- Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will not reduce lead. Boil Order Fact Sheet HERE.
- Look for alternative sources or treatment of water. You may want to consider purchasing a water filter. Read the package to be sure the filter is approved to reduce lead or contact NSF International at (1-800-NSF-8010) or http://www.nsf.org for further information.
- Test your water for lead. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Your water department can provide you with a listing of certified laboratories that you may employ if you desire further testing.
Village staff wishes to keep our customers informed about their water quality. Should you have questions regarding lead and copper in drinking water, please contact Maxwell Geib, utilities superintendent, at 847-913-2383.
