816R08007
             Implementing the
SodnmenetSal Protection
A9ency          Provision of the Lead
             and Copper Rule:
             A Guide For Community Water Systems

-------
                     (Original Document: Lead in Drinking Water Regulation:
       Public Education Guidance for Community Water Systems, EPA 816-R-02-010, June 2002)

          (Revised Document: Implementing the Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR,
               A Guide for Community Water Systems: EPA 816-R-08-007, June 2008)
Office of Water (4606M)
EPA816-R-08-007
June 2008
www.epa.gov/safewater

-------
                                                         Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                         A Guide for Community Water Systems

Table of Contents

Objective and Organization                                                                           1
Introduction                                                                                        3
Section 1: PE Requirements/Developing Your PE Program Plan                                           5
        Summary of Program Requirements                                                              5
        Required Content of Public Education Materials                                                   8
        Required Delivery Methods for Your Public Education Materials                                      9
        Consumer Confidence Report Required Information                                              13
        Developing Your Public Education Program Plan                                                  14
               Public Education Flow Chart                                                           14
Section 2: Designing an Effective Public Education Program                                            16
        Step 1: Know Your PE Requirements                                                            16
        Step 2: Know Your Audience                                                                   17
               Sources of Information about your audience                                               18
        Step 3: Contact Your Community Partners                                                       19
               Partnering with the public health community                                              19
               Partnering with the media                                                              20
        Step 4: Prepare Your Messages                                                                  21
        Step 5: Identify Communication Channels to Get Your Message Out                                 22
        Step 6: Determine Your Outreach Material Needs                                                 23
        Step 7: Update Your PE Program Plan                                                           24
Section 3: Implementing Your Public Education Program                                               25
        Produce Your PE Materials                                                                     27
               Printed Materials                                                                      27
               Press Release or Media Notices                                                          27
               Material Templates                                                                    28
               Additional Materials                                                                   28
        Deliver Your PE Materials                                                                      29
               Bill Inserts                                                                           29
               Local Newspapers                                                                     29
               Radio and Television Stations                                                           29
               Public Service Announcements                                                          30
        Conduct Media Outreach                                                                      30
        Communicate Directly with the Public                                                          31
               Public Meetings                                                                       31
        Conclude Your PE Activities at the End of the Exceedance                                          32
Conclusion                                                                                        33
Appendix A: Frequently  Asked Questions                                                              35
Appendix B: Public Education Material Templates in English and Spanish                                39
        Checklist for Implementing Your PE Program                                                     41
        General Public Education Notice and List Serve/Email Announcement                               43
        Web Site Announcement                                                                       48
        Public  Service Announcement                                                                  49
        Press Release                                                                                 51
        Water Bill Statement/Insert                                                                    55
        Public  Education Brochure                                                                     56
        Public  Education Poster                                                                       58
        Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results                                                          60
Appendix C: Contacts and Additional Resources                                                       85
Appendix D: Lead and Copper Rule Public Education Requirements — Federal Regulatory Language        95
Appendix E: Lead and Copper CWS Public Education Fact Sheet                                       102

-------

-------
                                                      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                      A Guide for Community Water Systems


Objective and Organization

This guidance document explains the revised requirements for a lead Public Education (PE) program,
describes a practical approach for successfully carrying out a PE program on lead in drinking water, and
continues to serve as a tool to assist water suppliers with conducting a community-based, PE program
on lead in drinking water. The approach described here is based on our National Primary Drinking
Water Regulations (NPDWRs) for lead and copper, practical experience gained from implementing the
PE requirements of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), and principles of good risk communication. This
guidance is not a rule, but is intended to explain EPA's PE rules and provide recommendations on "best
practice" approaches that systems might want to consider in complying with these rules. While compliance
with the PE rules is required, following the recommendations and tips is optional.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), first issued this guidance document in July 1992. Since that
time,  EPA published minor revisions to the NPDWRs for lead and copper on January 12, 2000 (65 FR
1950). On October 10, 2007, EPA published an additional set of short-term revisions and clarifications
(72 FR 57782). These most recent changes to the LCR incorporate comments received from members of
the National Drinking Water Advisory Committee (NDWAC) Work Group on Public Education  (WGPE),
water systems, utility organizations,  and States. These groups have extensive experience implementing or
overseeing public education (PE) programs. The new rule requirements make changes to the content of the
messages provided to consumers, how the materials are delivered to consumers, and the timeframe in which
materials must be delivered. The rule changes still require water systems to deliver PE materials after a lead
action level exceedance. A summary of the revised PE requirements for community water systems (CWS)  is
provided in Tables 1, 1A, 2, and 3 in Section 1.

Under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA set the action level for lead in drinking water at
15 ppb. This means utilities must determine whether water from the customer's tap exceeds this level in at
least 10 percent of the homes sampled (i.e. 90th  percentile level). If the 90th percentile level does exceed
this limit, then the utility  must take certain steps to correct the problem.  One action a utility must take
following a lead action level exceedance is to conduct public education (no public education is required if
only the copper AL is exceeded).

For utilities seeking to quickly identify the basic public education requirements after a lead action level
exceedance, we have developed a five page fact sheet summarizing requirements (Appendix E).

Many systems have already developed PE programs, but we believe that systems, both large and small, will
find this document useful  in understanding the modifications to the PE requirements resulting from the
most recent LCR changes  and helping them to develop more effective PE programs.

The guidance manual is divided into the following sections:

>  Introduction  provides  a discussion of the health effects of lead, a brief history of the LCR regulations,
   and discusses the importance of conducting a thorough PE program that is grounded in strong risk
   communication principles.

»•  Section I: PE Program Requirements summarizes requirements that water suppliers must meet
   to comply with the  Federal regulations and how the latest LCR rule changes have impacted these
   requirements.

-------
Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
A Guide for Community Water Systems

>  Section II: Designing an Effective PE Program suggests practical steps a water system can take to plan a
   PE program prior to an exceedance.
>•  Section III: Implementing Your PE Program discusses how a water system can implement their PE
   requirements in the event of an exceedance; details tips for preparing materials needed to effectively
   communicate with the public; and provides practical tips on working with the media and communicating
   directly with the public.

This document contains five appendices:
>  Appendix A: Frequently Asked Questions about Lead in Drinking Water
»•  Appendix B: PE Materials Templates
»•  Appendix C: Contacts/Additional Sources of Information
>  Appendix D: Lead and Copper Rule Public Education Requirements—Federal Regulatory Language
>  Appendix E: Lead and Copper CWS Public Education Fact Sheet

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems


 Introduction

 Reducing lead in the environment is an important public health issue. Lead, a metal found in natural
 deposits, is harmful to human health. The most common exposure to lead is swallowing or breathing in lead
 paint chips and dust. However, lead in drinking water can also be a source of lead exposure. Lead is used in
 some water service lines and household plumbing materials. Lead in water usually occurs through corrosion
 of plumbing products containing lead. Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your
 body from drinking water or other sources. It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere
 with the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead
 exposure is to infants, young children, and pregnant women. Scientists have linked the effects of lead on the
 brain with lowered IQ in children. Adults with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by
 low levels of lead more  than healthy adults. Lead is stored in the bones and it can be released later in life.
 During pregnancy, the child receives lead from the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.
 EPA has taken a number of actions to limit our total exposure to lead, such as phasing out the use of lead in
 gasoline and banning lead based paint. As a result of EPA's actions and those of other government agencies,
 total exposure to lead is much lower today than in the late 1970s.

 On June 7, 1991, EPA  promulgated provisions to the maximum contaminant level goals (MCLGs) and
 NPDWRs for controlling lead and copper in drinking water (56 FR 26460). We modified this rule with four
 technical amendments that were published in the Federal Register on July 15, 1991 (56 FR 32113), June
 29, 1992 (57 FR 28785), June 30, 1994 (59 FR 33860), and minor revisions to reduce the reporting burden
 were published on January 12, 2000  (65 FR 1950). Beginning in 2004, EPA conducted a national review of
 implementation of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR)  to determine if there was a national problem related to
 elevated lead levels in drinking water. Our review placed a focus on  determining if the  existing rule was being
 effectively implemented by states and local communities and on identifying where additional guidance or
 changes to the regulation were needed to improve implementation.  During 2004, Congress held a number
 of oversight hearings to further investigate implementation of the LCR in the District of Columbia and  the
 nation.

 On October 10, 2007,  EPA published the latest changes to the LCR. These revisions are intended to better
 ensure that at-risk populations receive information quickly and are able to act to reduce their exposure. It is
 EPA's belief that these changes will also help water systems to better comply with the PE requirements.

 The LCR requires water suppliers to deliver water that is minimally corrosive, thereby reducing the
 likelihood that lead and copper will be introduced into the drinking water from the corrosion of lead
 and copper plumbing materials. In addition, it requires water suppliers to educate their customers about
 specific measures that can be used to reduce lead levels in home drinking water caused  by lead in household
 plumbing materials — the primary source of lead in drinking water.

 The LCR specifies that  a water system must conduct a PE program on lead in drinking water if, during a
 monitoring period, more than 10 percent of the tap water samples collected in accordance with 40 CFR
 §141.86 of the regulations (i.e., the 90th percentile lead level) exceed the EPA "action level" of 15 parts
 per billion (ppb), or 0.015 milligrams of lead per liter of water (mg/L). Specific requirements regarding the
 content and delivery of PE materials are contained in §141.85 of the regulation. Section 1 of this guidance
document details these requirements.

This guidance document presents practical steps and helpful tips for large and small systems to understand

-------
Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
A Guide for Community Water Systems


their PE requirements under the LCR and to design and implement a community-based education program
on lead and drinking water that reaches all segments of the population. This guidance document provides
comprehensive information and includes required and suggested activities for conducting a successful PE
effort. Water systems should pay particular attention to Section 1 for the specific PE requirements in the
event of an exceedance. Keep in mind, water systems may already have in place a communications team or
infrastructure that your PE program efforts can build upon. The key to reducing the health risks associated
with lead in drinking water is communicating these risks with those who most need to hear this information
and in the manner in which they are used to receiving information. A good PE program equals good risk
communication.

-------
                                                    Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                   A Guide for Community Water Systems
Section  1

PE Requirements/Developing Your PE Program  Plan

Conducting an effective Public Education (PE) program is essential if your system experiences a lead action
level exceedance. The Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) requires specific actions in the event of an exceedance
to inform the affected community about the risks associated with elevated lead levels (particularly to children
and expectant or nursing mothers), to provide information on what the water system is doing to address lead
in drinking water, and to advise the community on actions individuals can take to reduce their chance of
exposure to elevated levels of lead in drinking water.

This section details the specific PE requirements under the LCR and presents basic steps in developing a
PE Program Plan. Sections 2 and 3 go into a greater level of detail on each step in the Program Plan and
strategies for implementing each step. Water systems,  both large and small, should pay particular attention
to the requirements outlined in Section 1 in order to meet your obligations under the LCR. (Appendix D of
this document provides a copy of the Federal regulatory language described in this document.)

Summary of Program Requirements	

This document provides guidance to you, the public water supplier, regarding the PE requirements of
the LCR, as amended in 2007. Section 141.85 of the lead and copper rule regulations contain specific
requirements regarding the content and delivery of your public education program. The tables below
highlight the changes to the PE requirements contained in §141.85 and other public information
requirements. Refer to pages 5-7 of this Section for complete program  requirements.

Note: Water systems must submit all written public education materials to the state prior to delivery. The
state may require the system to obtain approval of the  content of written PE materials prior to delivery.
Table 1. Changes in the Public Education Requirements Resulting from the Lead and Copper Rule
Short-term Revisions and Clarifications
Revisions:
Applies to:
Content of Materials
Must alter language of previous public education according to the new text.
May use own language to discuss sources of lead and steps to reduce lead in drinking
water (previously pre-written text was required. Systems are now able to develop own
text within the guidelines that is applicable to local situation).
Must include language explaining what happened and what is being done.
Must include language providing contacts for more information.
Must include language explaining how to get water tested and lead in plumbing
components (low lead vs. lead free).
All water systems
All water systems
All water systems
All water systems
CWSs
Delivery of Public Education Materials
Must deliver printed materials meeting the content requirements to all bill paying
customers within 60 days after the end of the monitoring period in which the
exceedance occurred.
CWSs

-------
     Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
     A Guide for Community Water Systems
Table 1. Changes in the Public Education Requirements Resulting from the Lead and Copper Rule
Short-term Revisions and Clarifications - (continued)
Revisions:
Must, no less than quarterly, provide information on or in each water bill as long as the
system exceeds the action level for lead after the end of the monitoring period in which
the exceedance occurred.1 The message on the water bill must include the following
statement: "[Insert name of water system] found high levels of lead in drinking water in
some homes. Lead can cause serious health problems. For more information please call
[insert name of water system] or visit [insert your Web site here.]
Must continue to include information in water utility bill every billing cycle, but no less
frequently than quarterly, while still in exceedance of lead action level.
Must make a good-faith effort within 60 days after the end of the monitoring period
in which the exceedance occurred to contact customers most at risk by delivering
materials to the contact list of organizations with an informational notice encouraging
them to pass the information along.
Must deliver materials that meet content requirements to local public health agency and
directly contact the agencies within 60 days after the end of the monitoring period in
which the exceedance occurred.
Must deliver materials that meet content requirements to:
- Public and private schools or school boards
- Women Infants and Children (WIC) and Head Start programs
- Public and private hospitals and medical clinics
- Pediatricians
- Family planning clinics
- Local welfare agencies
Must post material to a publicly accessible Web site within 60 days after the end of the
monitoring period in which the exceedance occurred.
Must submit press release to newspaper, television, and radio stations within 60 days
after the end of the monitoring period in which the exceedance occurred.
Must repeat submission of press releases twice every 12 months while still in
exceedance of lead action level.
Must implement additional activities from one or more of the categories listed within
60 days after the end of the period in which the exceedance occurred (See Tables 2 and
3).
May distribute notices to every household served by system in place of submitting a
press release.
May limit the distribution of PE materials to facilities and organizations served by
the system most likely visited by pregnant women and children provided the system
distributes the PE materials to every household served by the system.
Must repeat delivering printed materials, good-faith efforts, and outreach activities
every 1 2 months while still in exceedance of lead action level.
May receive extension from State on 60 day requirement if needed for implementation
purposes.2
End of the monitoring period is September 30 of the calendar year in which sampling
occurs, or, if the Primacy Agency has established an alternate monitoring period, the
last day of that period.
Applies to:
CWSs
CWSs
CWSs
CWSs
CWSs
CWSs serving a population
greater than 100,000
CWSs
CWSs
CWSs
CWSs serving 3,300 or
fewer people (previously for
CWSs serving between 501
and 3,300 people)
CWSs serving 3,300 or
fewer people
CWSs
CWSs
All water systems that
are required to conduct
monitoring annually or less
frequently
1The message or delivery mechanism can be modified in consultation with the Primacy Agency. Specifically, the Primacy Agency may
 allow a separate mailing of PE materials to customers if the water system cannot place information on the water bills.
2Note: This extension is only appropriate if the system has initiated public education activities prior to the end of the 60-day
 deadline.

-------
                                                             Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                               A Guide for Community Water Systems
Table 1A. Other Lead and Copper Rule Public Information Requirements
Revisions:
Applies to:
Notification of Results - Reporting Requirements1
Must provide a consumer notice of lead tap water monitoring results to
all persons served by sampling sites.2
Must provide consumer notice as soon as practical, but no later than 30
days after system learns of tap monitoring results.
Must include the following information: results of lead tap water
monitoring, an explanation of the health effects of lead, list steps
consumers can take to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, and
contact information for the water utility. The notice must also provide
the maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) and the action level (AL) for
lead and definitions for these two terms.3
Must be provided to all persons served at the site by mail or other
methods. This includes those who do not receive a water bill.
All water systems
All water systems
All water systems
All water systems
Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) Requirements4
Every report must include the following lead-specific information: If
present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems,
especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking
water is primarily from materials and components associated with service
lines and home plumbing. [NAME OF UTILITY] is responsible for providing
high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials
used in plumbing components. 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 before using water for
drinking or cooking5. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you
may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking
water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is
available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/
safewater/lead.6J
A system may write its own statement in consultation with the Primacy
Agency.
All CWSs
All CWSs
'See Appendix C for templates with language that meets the notification of results requirements.
2This must be done whether or not you have a lead action level exceedence.
3The MCLG is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs
 allow for a  margin of safety. The action level (AL) is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers
 treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.
"This information must be included in the CCR whether or not the CWS has had a lead action level exceedence.
5You may wish to, in consultation with the Primacy Agency, write your own flushing time based on the actual flushing time in
 your PE plan or a flushing time that is more appropriate to your system.
6For CWSs that have a lead action level exceedence, the new required language is in addition to what the system is required
 to report in the CCR. Note: All CWSs must report the number of samples above the action level and the 90th percentile value.
7CWSs in States where EPA is the Primacy Agency or that have adopted the Revisions by December 2008 must begin including
 this lead informational statement in CCRs that are due to consumers by July 1, 2009 (i.e., the 2008 CCR.) Otherwise, CWSs
 must begin to include this information in the 2009 CCR.

-------
Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
A Guide for Community Water Systems
I.  Required Content of Public Education Materials
Your PE notices are required to begin with the following statement:
   Important Information about Lead in Your Drinking Water
   [Insert name of water system] found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/buildings. Lead can
   cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Please read this information
   closely to see what you can do to reduce lead in your drinking water.
In addition to this statement, your PE notices are required to include, and in the order presented, the topics
which are listed below in bold and the mandatory language which is noted below in italics. Additional
information under the topics must be addressed in your PE materials, however, the specific content and
wording is flexible. (Appendix B contains a template for a PE notice with the required content as well as
suggested EPA language. Additional information for developing statements may be found at EPA's Lead Web
site at www.epa.gov/lead).

>  Health Effects of Lead
Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources. It can
cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the production of red blood cells  that carry oxygen
to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and pregnant women.
Scientists have linked the effects of lead on the brain with loweredIQ in children.  Adults with kidney problems
and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults.  Lead is stored in the bones
and it can be released later in life.  During pregnancy, the child receives lead from the mother's bones, which may
affect brain development.

>  Sources of Lead
   • What is lead?
   • Where does the lead in drinking water come from? Include information on home/building plumbing
     materials and service lines that may contain lead.
   • What are other important sources of lead in addition  to drinking water? (e.g., paint)

»•  Steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead in your water
   • You must encourage running water to flush out the lead.1
   • You must explain concerns with using hot water and specifically caution against the use of hot water for
     baby formula (because lead dissolves more easily in hot water).
   • You must tell customers that boiling water does not reduce lead levels.
   • You must discuss other options customers can take to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water, such as
     alternative sources or treatment of water.
   • You must suggest that parents have their child's blood tested for lead.
   • You must tell customers how to  get their water tested.
   • You must discuss lead in plumbing components and the difference between low lead and lead free.
1 Consider conducting a study to determine the appropriate system specific flushing time. Consult with the Primacy Agency before designing or
beginning a study. For example, a study may consist of collecting tap samples at different flushing time durations from a statistically significant
number of taps. In addition, use a sample size that is different than the sample size used for the 90th percent calculation  to avoid study samples
from being included in the 90th percent calculation.

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems
   What happened? What is being done?
   • Why are there high levels of lead in my drinking water (if known)?
   • What are you (the water system)  doing to reduce the lead levels in homes in this area?
   • Does your system have lead service lines? How can a consumer find out if their home has one? Is there a
     program to replace it? Are there any special incentives offered?
   • Your system may also want to provide information on the history of lead levels in tap samples: have
     they declined substantially over time? Have they been low and risen recently? Is there a known reason
     for any change?
>  For more information

Call us at [Insert Number] or (if applicable) visit our Web site at [Insert Web site Here].  For more information
on reducing lead exposure around your home/building and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.
epa.gov/lead, or contact your health care provider.

   • We recommend you include the name of your system and the date that the information is being
    distributed, along with the state water system ID, somewhere on the notice.

II.     Required Delivery Methods for Your Public Education Materials

Tables 2 and 3 provide a summary of the required PE activities and the timing of their implementation,
depending on system size. (Appendix B contains templates for all of the types of required notices and the
required content).
 Table 2. Required Methods of Delivery for Small (<3,300 customers) Community Water Systems
                     Requirement
                  Timing1
 Deliver printed materials (pamphlets, brochures, posters)
 along with an informational statement encouraging
 distribution to all potentially affected customers or users
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
repeating once every 12 months  	
 Deliver public education materials to the following facilities
 and organizations that are served by the system along with
 an informational notice that encourages distribution to
 potentially affected customers:2
 1.  Local public health agencies3
 2.  Public and private schools or school boards
 3.  Women Infants and Children (WIC) and Head Start
    programs
 4.  Public and private hospitals and medical clinics
 5.  Pediatricians
 6.  Family planning clinics
 7.  Local welfare agencies
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
repeating once every 12 months

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
Table 2. Required Methods of Delivery for Small (<3,300 customers) Community Water Systems
(Continued)
Requirement
Make a good faith effort to locate the following
organizations within the service area and deliver materials
that meet the content requirements, along with an
informational notice that encourages distribution to all
potentially affected customers or users. The good faith
effort to contact at-risk customers may include requesting
a specific contact list of the organizations from the local
public health agencies, even if the agencies are not located
within the water system service area:4
1. Licensed childcare centers
2. Public and private preschools
3. Obstetricians-Gynecologists and Midwives
Provide information on or in each water bill (no less than
quarterly or state can approve a separate mailing)5 6
Submit press release to newspaper, television, and radio
stations7
Implement additional Public Education activities8
Timing1
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
CWSs must submit a press release twice every
12 months on a schedule agreed upon with the
Primacy Agency
Each billing cycle for as long as the system
exceeds the lead action level
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
CWSs must submit a press release twice every
12 months on a schedule agreed upon with the
Primacy Agency
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
repeating once every 1 2 months
       1 Primacy Agency can allow activities to extend beyond the 60-day requirement if needed for implementation purposes;
        however, this extension must be approved in writing in advance of the 60-day deadline.
       2Td obtain a list of organizations in your area, contact your local public health agency. Additional informational resources
        of associations  and licensing agencies of these organizations are listed in Appendix C.
       3 Systems are required to contact their Local Public Health Agencies directly (either in person or by phone) even if they are
        not located in the water system service area. If you do not have a Local Public Health Agency, you should contact your
        State Health Department.
       "For further clarification of a good faith effort, systems should consult with their Primacy Agency.
       5State  may allow a separate mailing if the water system cannot place information on the water bill. Water bill language is
        included in Appendix B.
       6Systems may add additional pages (e.g., public education brochure) to the Consumer Confidence Report if timing is
        appropriate. However, it may be rare that timing will coincide, given that the CCR must contain compliance data collected
        in the previous  calendar year and the report must be provided to consumers no later than July 1 (i.e., the report issued by
        July 1, 2007 contains compliance data collected in calendar year 2006).
       7Primacy Agency may waive this requirement  as long as the system distributes notices to every household served by the
        system.
       8 See Table 4 for a listing of the additional required activities for small systems.
10

-------
                                                              Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                               A Guide for Community Water Systems
  Table 3. Required Methods of Delivery for Large (>3,300 customers) Community Water Systems
                          Requirement
                    Timing1
  Deliver printed materials (pamphlets, brochures, posters) to all bill
  paying customers
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
repeating once every 12 months
  Deliver public education materials to the following organizations
  that are served by the system, along with an informational notice
  encouraging distribution to all potentially affected customers:2
  1.  Local public health agencies3
  2.  Public and private schools or school boards
  3.  Women Infants and Children (WIC) and Head Start programs
  4.  Public and private hospitals and medical clinics
  5.  Pediatricians
  6.  Family planning clinics
  7.  Local welfare agencies
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
repeating once every 12 months
  Make a good faith effort to locate the following organizations
  within the service area and deliver materials that meet the content
  requirements, along with an informational notice that encourages
  distribution to all potentially affected customers or users. The
  good faith effort to contact at-risk customers may include
  requesting a specific contact list of the organizations from the
  local public health agencies, even if the agencies are not located
  within the water system service area:4
  1.  Licensed childcare centers
  2.  Public and private pre-schools
  3.  Obstetricians-Gynecologists and Midwives
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
repeating once every 12 months
  Provide information on or in each water bill (no less than quarterly
  or state can approve a separate mailing)5'6
Each billing cycle for as long as the system exceeds
the Iea8 action level
  Post material on the water system's Web site (for systems serving
  > 100,000 individuals) or on a publicly accessible Web site (e.g.
  State Web site)
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
continuously throughout the exceedance
 Submit press release to newspaper, television, and radio stations
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
CWSs must submit a press release twice every
12 months on a schedule agreed  upon with the
Primacy Agency
 Implement additional Public Education activities7
Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
period in which the exceedance occurred and
repeating once every 12 months
1 Primacy Agency can allow activities to extend beyond the 60-day requirement if needed for implementation purposes; however,
 this extension must be approved in writing in advance of the 60-day deadline.
2 To obtain a list of organizations in your area, contact your local public health agency. Additional informational resources of
 associations and licensing agencies of these organizations are listed in Appendix C.
3 Systems are required to contact their Local Public Health Agencies directly (either in person or by phone).
4 For further clarification of a good faith effort, systems should consult with their Primacy Agency.
5Primacy Agency may allow a separate mailing if the water system cannot place information on the water bill. See Appendix B for
 the required water bill language.
6 Systems may add additional pages (e.g., public education brochure) to the Consumer Confidence Report if timing is appropriate.
 However, it may be rare that timing will coincide, given that the CCR must contain compliance data collected in the previous
 calendar year and the report must  be provided to consumers no later than July 1 (i.e., the report issued by July 1, 2007 contains
 compliance data collected in calendar year 2006).
7 See Table 4 for a listing of the additional required activities for large systems.
                                                                                                                11

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
       In addition to the activities described previously that are required for all community water systems, there are
       requirements that afreet water systems depending on their size. Small systems (serving <3,300 individuals)
       are required to conduct one (1) additional activity listed in Table 4.  Large systems (serving >3,300
       individuals) are required to conduct three (3) activities from one, two, or three of the general categories listed
       in Table 4. Systems should verify with their Primacy Agency* to ensure fulfillment of all requirements.
Table 4. Required Methods of Delivery for Community Water Systems to Choose From1-2
Categories
Public Service Announcements
Paid Advertisements
Display Information in Public Areas
Email to Customers
Public Meetings
Delivery to Every Household
Individual Contact with Customers (targeted contact)
Provide Materials Directly to Multi-family Housing
Other Methods Approved by the State
Example Activities
Radio and Television PSAs
Newspaper, transit, or movie theater ads
Community and health centers
Local sporting events
Grocery stores
Laundromat bulletin boards
Libraries
Faith-based organizations
Community listservs
Utility or other publicly accessible Web site (for small
systems serving < 3,300)3
Post on local government Web sites

Town hall meetings
PTA meetings
Doorknob hangers, mailing to all consumers
Phone trees
Calls to individual consumers/households
Targeted mailings to at-risk populations
Posters, flyers

       1 Appendix B contains customizable templates for PE materials that may be used to meet these requirements.
       2Consult with the Primacy Agency about what constitutes a good faith effort and what activities would work for your
        community.
       3 Large Systems must conduct this activity (see Table 3).

       *ln general, the term "State" is used to mean the Primacy Agency. Section 141.2 definition of "State" is the agency of the
        State or Tribal government which has jurisdiction over public water systems. During any period when a State or Tribal
        government does not have primary enforcement responsibility pursuant to section 141.3 of the Act, the term "State"
        means the Regional Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
12

-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems

 III.     Consumer Confidence Report Required Information'	
 In addition to the required PE activities above, all CWSs must include a statement about lead, health
 effects language, and ways to reduce exposure in every CCR released to the public. For CWSs that have
 a lead action level exceedance, the new required language (see below) is in addition to what a system is
 required to report in the CCR. Note: All CWSs must report the number of samples  above the action level
 and the 90th percentile value.

 If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young
 children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and
 home plumbing. [Name of utility] is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control
 the variety of materials used in plumbing components. 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 before using
 water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your drinking water, you may wish to have
your water  tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize
 exposure is available form the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

 Flexibility is given to CWSs  to write its own informational statement, but only in consultation with
 the Primacy Agency. For example, the system may wish to revise the flushing time of "30 seconds to
 2 minutes" if it conflicts with the flushing information in its public education materials or to add the
 phone number for the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791). CWSs in States where EPA is
 the Primacy Agency or that have adopted the Revisions by December 2008 must begin including this
 lead informational statement in CCRs that are due to consumers by July 1, 2009 (i.e., the 2008 CCR).
 Otherwise, CWSs must begin to include this information in the 2009 CCR. Please  note, this new
 requirement applies to all CWSs irrespective of whether they have had a lead action level exceedence.
1 Refer to Appendix B for sample Consumer Notification templates.

                                                                                                       13

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
       IV.     Developing Your Public Education Program Plan	

       Meeting the requirements outlined above will require a good deal of effort on the part of a water system to
       implement the required activities, and within the required timeframe. The most effective way to implement
       these requirements it to develop a PE Program Plan in advance of an exceedance.  This plan will help you
       determine what activities you will want to undertake during your routine monitoring and what you will
       need to do to implement your required PE activities in the event of an exceedance.

       The flowchart below lists seven recommended steps for designing and implementing your PE Program
       Plan. Each step corresponds to a more detailed description included in Sections 2 and 3 of this guidance
       document. Page 26 includes a simple checklist of actions you may wish to conduct as you design and
       execute your PE Program Plan.
       Public  Education Flow Chart
                 Conduct Monitoring Activities
                 In the Event of an Exceedance
             Continue Monitoring
             Conclude PE Once   f
             Exceedance Has Ended
      Design Your PE Program

               1
      Know Your PE Requirements

               i
      Know Your Target Audience

               i
   Contact Your Community Partners

               1
       Prepare Your Messages

               1
 Identify Your Communication Channels

               i
'Determine Your Outreach Material Needs

               i
     Update Your PE Program Plan

               1
     Implement Your PE Program
             Communicate with the Public
                                                                                     Conduct Media Outreach
14
      *Note: A water system may discontinue delivery of public education materials when the system has met the lead action level during the most
      recent six month monitoring period.


-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

*  Step 1: Know Your PE Requirements
   Refer to pages 8-12 of this Section to review the required content and delivery mechanisms for your PE program.

>  Step 2: Know Your Target Audience
   Knowing who is in your target audience is an important first step. This will help guide your efforts to
   craft messages and materials, develop effective partnerships, and determine how (and through whom)
   to deliver these message and materials for maximum impact. (See Pages 17-18 to learn more about
   identifying your target audiences).

>  Step 3: Contact Your Community Partners
   Once you know your  requirements and who you will be contacting, develop partnerships with key
   members of your community who will help you distribute your messages and materials and who serve
   as an information source in your community (e.g. local health department). You should educate these
   partners about your PE requirements and PE program, ask them for advice on how to reach your target
   audiences, and let them know what assistance they can provide, such as quickly reaching the community
   and providing input in planning your PE program.  Please note that systems are required under
   the LCR to make direct contact with their local health departments. (See Pages 18-21 to learn
   more about identifying and working with your community partners). Appendix C contains additional
   information for contacting local community partners.

>  Step 4: Prepare Your Messages
   After identifying your audience and resources and talking with your community partners, you should
   identify the messages  and most effective activities and delivery methods to reach your audiences. Pages
   8-10 provide specific information on  the delivery methods you are required to conduct.  Consider the
   education level of your audience  and  use the templates in Appendix B to customize your PE materials
   (and keep in mind the required content detailed on Pages 8-9).  Preparing templates ahead of time will
   help make compliance within the standard timelines more feasible. (See Page 21 to learn more about
   preparing your messages).

>  Step 5: Identify Your Communication Channels
   Knowing what messages and delivery methods you will likely be targeting, you can contact the
   appropriate channels to prepare for implementation. This should include developing a list of media
   outlets and contacts for distributing press releases, documenting posting requirements for Web sites, and
   determining contact information for placing advertisements or submitting public service announcements.
   Work with the community partners you established in Step 3 to enlist their assistance in reaching
   high-risk groups,  specific ethic or cultural groups, or other target audiences. (See Pages 22-23 to learn
   more about communication channels).  Appendix C contains additional information for identifying
   communication channels.

>  Step 6: Determine Your Outreach Material Needs
   Identify what materials you will need and what processes  you will need to put in place to produce them
   quickly.  You should determine how many copies of materials you will need, the costs for producing
   materials, the amount of time printers will need to produce materials, and contact information for
   printers, web designers, and others who will assist you in materials preparation.  (See Pages 23-24 to learn
   more about planning your outreach material needs).

»•  Step 7: Update Your  PE Program Plan
   Periodically, you should review and update your PE Program Plan.  This should include updating all
   contacts, talking with  your community partners to confirm their willingness and  ability to assist you
   in the event of an exceedance, and determining if any new methods or ideas for reaching your target
   audiences are available to you. All resources and prices associated with creating and producing your PE
   outreach materials should also be checked and updated.
                                                                                                      15

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems
      Section  2

      Designing an Effective Public  Education  Program

      This section describes the recommended steps you should consider in planning your public education (PE)
      program. These steps can help you design your PE program to ensure that, should your system experience
      an action level exceedance, you will be ready to implement PE activities quickly and effectively. Your PE
      Program Plan should be part of your system's larger communications plan (i.e. incorporate with your public
      notifications, boiling water advisories, communication planning, etc.) While the PE requirements vary
      somewhat by system size, the steps and tips presented below are applicable to all water systems, large and
      small.
      This section is organized around the following key steps:

      ^  Step 1: Know Your PE Requirements

      *  Step 2: Know Your Audience

      *  Step 3: Contact Your Community Partners

      *  Step 4: Prepare Your Messages

      >  Step 5: Identify Your Communication Channels
      >  Step 6: Determine Your Outreach Material Needs

      >  Step 7: Update Your PE Program Plan

      Creating an effective PE program requires careful planning
      and timely execution. Increasingly, the public expects service
      providers to share health risk information in a timely and
      effective way. Prompt and thorough communication allows
      the public to understand a health risk issue and take action
      to minimize their personal risk until the issue is resolved.
      Risk information should be clear, thoughtful, and should be
      delivered in a manner that meets the needs of all members of
      your community. Waiting until a lead action level exceedance
      has occurred to plan your program and materials creates an
      unnecessary burden on your system and may result in rushed
      and less effective communications with your community.

      Step 1: Know Your PE Requirements	
TIP: An effective PE Program
equals effective risk
communication

There are several guidelines for effective risk
communication that should be considered
when designing a PE campaign.

t  Take the initiative in providing
   information to your community.

>  Plan your efforts in advance and evaluate
   them upon completion.

>  Listen to your community members and
   acknowledge their concerns.

t  Be a reliable source of information.
   Provide honest, accurate, and
   comprehensive information.

>  Partner with trusted sources in your
   community.

>  Provide timely and accurate information
   to the media.

>  Always speak with a consistent voice.
   Designate one point of contact that can
   respond to the public and the media.

>  Make PE materials easy to read and
   understand for people with differing
   educational levels.
      Section 1 of this guidance document outlined the required activities, content, and delivery mechanisms
      water systems must implement in the event of a lead action level exceedance.  Water systems are required to
      communicate with their Primacy Agency when an exceedance is identified. As part of your planning, you
      should identify the contact at the Primacy Agency for consultations on PE requirements. Review pages 5-13
      to understand your PE requirements and see Appendix D for the Federal regulatory language.
16

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems
Step 2: Know Your Audience
                                                                    TIP: Research your audience in
                                                                    advance to understand any unique
                                                                    requirements they may have.
                                                                    t   What languages are spoken in
                                                                       your service area?
                                                                    >   Within each language
                                                                       community, what percentage
                                                                       of people is also proficient in
                                                                       English?
                                                                    >   Are there large numbers of
                                                                       people in your service area with
                                                                       low literacy levels?
                                                                    >   Are low-literacy groups
                                                                       "clustered" in certain zip codes
                                                                       or neighborhoods?
                                                                    >   What sources of information do
                                                                       these groups trust?
Once you have reviewed your PE program requirements, the next
step is to determine the audience(s) for your PE program activities.

Identifying your key audiences and their information needs is,
perhaps, the most important step that you can take when planning
your program. The size, location, and cultural composition of your
audiences will have a direct effect on the design of your program
— from the educational materials you use to how you distribute
information. Effective risk communication requires  that important
messages reach those who need to hear them  when they are ready
to hear them and in a way they can understand. In some cases,
effectiveness is determined by the person communicating the message
(i.e., using health care providers to educate expectant mothers) while
in other cases, effectiveness is determined by the way the information
is presented (i.e.  through direct mailings, mass media, etc.).
Whatever the case, understanding your audience and their needs
is essential for determining how and where to deliver information
that educates, promotes desired behaviors and actions, and creates
confidence in your systems ability to deal with an exceedance.

Below are some of the audience segments that you must reach out to when conducting your PE Program.
>  General public. This includes everyone in your service area that may be affected by an action level
   exceedance.
>  High-risk Groups. Those particularly vulnerable to lead in drinking water exposure include children
   6 years of age and younger, infants, and pregnant women.  Your PE program should target agencies and
   organizations  that serve high-risk groups, deliver materials and messages that make the risks clear, and
   provide actionable recommendations for how to protect oneself and ones children from the risks of lead
   in drinking water.
»  Different Language Communities. If significant proportions of the population in your community
   speak languages other than English, the PE materials must contain information in the appropriate
   language(s) regarding the importance of the notice or a contact where persons can obtain a translation or
   assistance.
*  Low-literacy Audiences.  Some individuals in your community may possess limited reading skills.  To
   reach these individuals, print materials must be written as simply and concisely as possible and should
   contain graphical representations of key messages and actions. Low-literacy groups are more likely to rely
  on non-print forms of communication, such as TV or radio Public Service Announcements (PSAs),  to
  receive information about critical health topics.
*• Non-bill Paying Customers.  Some people who drink your system's water may not receive a water bill
   (e.g., commuters working within the water system area, but living outside of it; residents in multi-unit
  dwellings who may not pay for water; restaurant owners who use the water for cooking, etc.) and your
  system needs to establish delivery mechanisms to reach these individuals.
                                                                                                       17

-------

       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
       Sources of information about your audiences:

       U.S. Census Bureau
       To find information on the languages spoken in your area, see the U.S. Census Bureau's Web site, http://
       factfinder.census.gov. The census database includes information about literacy levels, what languages besides
       English are spoken at home, and the level of English proficiency. (English proficiency is important, because
       if a group tends to speak a language at home, but is also able to read and understand English, a notification
       in a second language may not be necessary.) You should also be able to find out the number of people who
       speak each language.

       Local Media
       Your local media is a good source of information about your community. It is the media's job to know the
       community inside and out. Media outlets have an economic need to understand how to reach various
       segments of the audience and typically have a mission to serve the community. These two goals mean that
       they are likely to know the various audience segments in your community and have contacts with key leaders
       within the community who have strong relationships or access to a specific subgroup.  Since you should
       establish relationships with your media anyway (Step 3), one way to create media allies is to recognize their
       knowledge and ask them for valuable information about your service population.

       Community and Ethnic Group Leaders
       Community and ethnic group leaders can help you understand the audience segments you serve and learn
       about the communication channels each segment uses and trusts. These grassroots groups have a high level
       of contact with target demographic groups and tend to be trusted by them. Establish and maintain working
       alliances with these grassroots organizations  so that if you need to quickly disseminate a message about the
       drinking water in the future, you already have channels in place to reach your diverse audience.  This can
       demonstrate your concern for the community they serve and establish a level of trust that will increase the
       likelihood that they will  assist you when needed.

       Cultural and ethnic interest groups, churches/ mosques/ synagogues, and multicultural centers are in touch
       with the needs and concerns of specific racial, religious, or ethnic groups, including people who  may not
       speak or read English. Leaders of such groups may enjoy greater trust among their constituents than water
       system spokespeople.  •
      Health Care Providers
      Health care providers, hospital and nursing home directors, and social
      service providers are a first source of information for many people,
      especially vulnerable populations. Health professionals are likely to
      be asked questions when there is an issue related to the drinking
      water. Establishing relationships with these professionals in advance
      of an action level exceedance and providing them  with information
      on your water system's plans when an exceedance  occurs will help
      them educate their customers and allay their concerns. Appendix C
      contains more information on identifying these resources within your
      community.
TIP: As you explore the resources
in your community and establish
relationships with potential allies,
remember to ask about the key
local media that each audience
segment looks to for information.
For example, many communities
have multiple non-English radio
stations, cable access television
shows, and local public radio
stations that may appeal to your
various audience segments.
18

-------
                                                         Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                          A Guide for Community Water Systems
Step 3: Contact Your Community Partners
Now that you understand your PE program requirements
and know your audiences, you should assemble your
communication or outreach team and establish community
partnerships. You may already have a communications
team or person(s) that can be utilized to implement the PE
program. Water systems that seek assistance from a variety of
community partners to inform PE efforts and to design PE
programs are more successful at implementing effective PE
campaigns than those that do not. A diverse team comprised
of community members representing the public, private,
and civic sectors can provide your water system with: access
to a wide range of community resources; understanding of
the community's audience segments and the best ways to
reach them; and ready-made communication channels that
you can access in the event of an exceedance.

These groups can make unique and important contributions
to your PE program. Government officials lend credibility
and authority and  can draw attention to the program.
Government agencies offer a variety of specialized services
and technical expertise from mobilizing community
resources and media involvement to providing expertise
on the health effects of lead. Schools are one of the best
conduits in any community for reaching parents of young
children. Community service organizations can distribute
information to high-risk targeted groups; civic groups can
offer valuable volunteer assistance; and the private sector can
underwrite program costs as well as distribute and explain
information about lead in drinking water to high-risk
targeted groups.
Form your planning team and meet with them regularly to help you
take action on the remaining steps presented below.

In addition to the members of your communication or outreach
team, consider creating partnerships with two  important groups
within your community: the public health community and the
media. These groups are essential avenues for  quickly reaching
the public. Enlist their assistance in planning  your PE program
so that they will be ready to assist your efforts  should you have an
exceedance.

Partnering with the public health community
Collaborating with public health officials is crucial to developing
an effective PE effort.  Different parts of the health department,
Suggested PE Community
Partners (see Appendix C for
more information)
>  City, county, and State government
   officials including representatives of the
   city, county, or municipal'council; the
   mayor's, city administrator's, or county
   commissioner's office
>  City or county government agencies
   including the public affairs, health, and
   environmental protection departments,
   and local agencies responsible for lead
   screening programs
>  Representatives of the local public school
   system
>  Representatives of public hospitals and/or
   clinics
>  Representatives of community
   organizations that the LCR requires water
   systems to reach out to in the event of an
   exceedance (see Page 9 for a list of these
   organizations)
>  Members of civic groups such as the
   Chamber of Commerce, neighborhood
   associations, and local chapters of
   community service organizations
>  Private sector leaders such as child care
   centers, health care providers, health care
   facilities or clinics, and hospitals
         TIP: Because of their interactions
         with your target audiences, local
         health professionals need to
         understand how a lead action
         level exceedance affects their
         constituents and patients. Public
         health officials may know the most
         effective channels for reaching
         your community's health providers.
         Discuss this in advance so that you
         are not trying to find every child
         and maternal health clinic, doctor,
         and nurse in your community at the
         same time that you are trying to
         solve an exceedance problem.
                                                                                                          19

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems

      including maternal and child health, community health, environmental health, and other sections, can assist
      in developing your materials and conducting effective outreach.  Local public health agencies often know
      how to reach specific segments of your target audience because they may have had to conduct a similarly
      targeted outreach campaign before. Connecting your PE campaign effort to the health department's  lead
      poisoning prevention, water quality, and broader environmental programs, can seed the kind of holistic lead
      education program that communities require. Lead in drinking water is one possible source of exposure, but
      there are many other sources and the public needs to think about lead health risks from every source, not
      just what could be in the water.

      Remember that the public health community is a much larger group than just the local government
      agencies.  Local universities, community based organizations, health care providers and insurers, nurse
      practitioners, and many others create the network of care that surrounds your community. You should try to
      access as many of diese organizations as you can to determine the most effective communication channels and
      outreach tactics for your PE campaign. The more allies you have, the better. Appendix C contains additional
      information for identifying community partners.

      Chances are that public health officials who regularly work on lead issues already have lists of contacts
      of health care providers, schools, child care organizations, and social service providers with close ties  to
      women, infants, and children in your community. Learn from
      what they already know. Explain your role in monitoring for and
      communicating about lead and educate health officials and others
                                                                    TIP: Be on the lookout for
                                                                    opportunities to help your local
about how lead enters drinking water, how the water system monitors    me Ia earn a out * e services
                                                                          your system provides and to recruit
                                                                          them as allies in your PE efforts.
                                                                          One successful approach is to host
                                                                          an annual media day where you
                                                                          can offer tours, explain how your
                                                                          system operates, and explain your
                                                                          lead monitoring program.  The
                                                                          more informed your local media is
                                                                          about your water system, the more
                                                                          accurate and positive they will be
                                                                          when covering an exceedance and
                                                                          conveying information to your public.
for it, and steps one can take to minimize lead exposure.

Develop a relationship and response plan with your local health
department so that you have an agreed upon process for sharing
information about lead in drinking water risks and communicating
with the public. Consumers may call the health department for
information about the health risks described in your PE materials;
if you coordinate in advance, you can ensure that, regardless of who
they call, your public hears consistent messages that will help them
understand the risks and how to manage them. The latest LCR
revisions require that water systems must have direct contact with
public health officials  in die event of an exceedance.  Establishing and maintaining relationships with these
individuals as you plan your program will make it easier to work with these individuals in the event of an
exceedance.

Partnering with the media
Your local media (print, radio, and television) can be a powerful ally in planning and executing your PE
program.  More than any other communication channel, the media can rapidly reach a large number of
people with educational messages. Although working with the media may be challenging at times, planning
ahead will help you  to quickly and effectively engage them should you have an exceedance.  (See Section 3
for information on working with the media during an exceedance).

Designate one person on your staff to serve as a liaison to the media.  Media outlets will heed to know who
they can speak to about  an exceedance and any ramifications for the public. In the event of an exceedance,
all media inquiries should be directed to the media spokesperson. This will ensure that messages coming
20

-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems
from your water system are consistent and contain accurate information. As part of your system's community
relations efforts, your spokesperson should meet regularly with local editors or station managers for both
small and large media outlets. You should identify and meet with reporters or segment producers that deal
with environment, health, and water issues to educate them about the water system, why and how you
monitor the water quality, and what your program will do if a lead action level exceedance or other kind of
violation occurs. The more information you can provide up front, the less likely the media will be to make
errors in their coverage.

.Ask your media contacts what kind of information about water quality issues they would find valuable in
case of an exceedance and prepare draft materials for the media in advance. If you make it easy  for the media
to cover your story correctly, they are more likely to do so. If you base your draft media materials on input
from the media themselves, when it is time to finalize your materials and distribute them as part of your PE
campaign, the media is more likely to help you get your message out and to reinforce your messages.

Finally,  as part of your planning for media engagement, identify individuals in your community (e.g. public
health officials, scientists, experts from local universities, etc.) who can serve as experts for the media to
contact. These individuals should be very familiar with issues related to lead in drinking water—preferably
they are members of your team who you have educated thoroughly about your lead monitoring program
and who know your commitment to safeguarding the public health, steps individual customers can take to
protect  against lead health risks, your PE Program Plan, and your
plan for solving the problem.
Step 4: Prepare Your Messages
Now that you have identified your target audiences and determined
what specific communication needs they might have, the next step is
to prepare your PE messages. For drinking water-related issues, the
public is most likely to be interested in:
> Health and safety implications. (Is my family's health in danger?)
> Simple advice and guidance. (What should I do to stay safe?)
> Practical implications, such as potential service interruptions.
   (How will this affect my daily life?)
Effective messages
should:
>  Be clear and concise..
>  Be compelling, encourage
   action, and explain how to take
   action.
>  Communicate the risks from all
   sources of lead with a particular
   emphasis on drinking water.
>  Meet the communication needs
   of your entire  community (See
   Step 2).
You do not have to wait for an exceedance to begin preparing your
messages. The required PE language (as detailed in Section 1) considers the public's risk communication
needs, but your system will want to customize your communications to convey actions you are taking as
a system to address the exceedance.  Developing your key messages and
identifying materials to distribute to the public (Step 5) will ensure that,
should an exceedance occur, you will be ready to deliver materials that
educate your public, empower people to take action to protect their health,
and build trust between you and your community.
When you think about preparing messages, consider that doing so also
allows you to train spokespersons, build Web pages, draft press releases, and
create fact sheets, brochures, and other required materials before you ever
have to deal with an exceedance. Keep in mind that Section 1 contains
information about the messages your PE materials are required to
contain.
        TIP: Effective risk
        communication requires
        that any member of the
        affected public should
        know who to contact for
        more information and
        how they can learn more
        about lead in drinking
        water and lead health
        risks.
                                                                                                        21

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
       Step 5: Identify Communication Channels to
       Get Your Message Out	

       The next step after determining what messages you will use in
       your PE Program is to identify what mechanisms you will use to
       get your messages out to your target audiences.

       As part of your PE program, water systems that have lead action
       level exceedances are required to reach out to organizations that
       regularly interact widi young children, infants, and pregnant
       women (See Section 1). This requirement is designed to
       help water systems find communication channels, or conduit
       organizations, through which they can distribute materials and
       educational messages to ensure that critical information reaches
       the most vulnerable populations as quickly as possible. You
       should assemble a list of organizations, contacts, and distribution
       plans to ensure that, when you need to implement your PE
       campaign, the pathways for sharing your information and
       reinforcing your messages are already in place.

       Many of the organizations that may serve as communication
       channels should already be on your PE team. Those
       organizations that may play a role in the event of an exceedance
       and who are not on your team will need some specific
       information from you as you are establishing the relationship.
       Make sure all of the partners you expect to work with know:
          >  What to expect if an action level exceedance occurs.
          >  What to do with the materials that you provide them.
          *  How to reach the key person(s) responsible for your drinking water PE program.
Remember: To reach vulnerable populations
with information about lead, water systems
are required to conduct targeted outreach
to:
   Local public health agencies
   Public/private schools or school boards
   WICVHead Start centers
   Public/private hospitals and clinics
   Pediatricians and pediatric nurse
   practitioners
   Family planning clinics
   Local welfare agencies
Water systems are required to make a good
faith effort to conduct targeted outreach to:
>  Licensed childcare centers
>  Public and  private pre-schools
>  Obstetricians-Gynecologists and
   Midwives
Appendix C contains additional information
on how to locate these organizations
        Tips for Planning Your Messages and Outreach

        Identify Key Organizations.  Identify those organizations in your community that meet the required and
        recommended list of organizations.

        Assemble Your List and Be Ready for Action.  Routinely review and update as necessary your list of target
        organizations. Include the name of a contact person at each school, hospital, clinic, child care provider, social service,
        or other organization through which you plan to distribute your PE materials.  Make sure you have the address, phone
        number, email, and any contact information you need to quickly reach these organizations.

        Assemble a spreadsheet or database to manage organizational contact information. In addition to managing the contact
        information for your conduit organizations and community partners, you may also want to include the name of the
        target population you expect that organization to help you reach. Having such a system can prove useful if you have
        an exceedance: you can use it to print mailing labels; organize a phone tree; and track your efforts to reach vulnerable
        populations, various language communities, and non-bill paying customers.

        Learn from the Professionals and Recruit Advocates. Meet with  your local health department officials and ask
        them about the most effective means of communicating to target populations in your community (see Step 3).

        Educate and Learn from Your Advocates. Explain why lead is something you monitor, how you monitor, what you
        are required to do in the event an exceedance, how they can help you and why they should care to help you, what they
        can expect to receive from you in the event of an exceedance, and what you would like them to do. Ask them what they
        have found to be effective methods for sharing health risk information with your target audiences.
22

-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems


In addition to the organizations you are required to conduct outreach to, EPA strongly recommends that
water systems also contact:
>•  Maternity programs/birthing classes                *• Women's shelters
*  Teen parent programs                             > Family/general practices and nurse practitioners
»•  Parent teacher organizations                       *• Institutes of higher education
*•  Parent support organizations                       * Local non profit health groups

In addition to these organizations that have access to high-risk populations, EPA recommends reaching out
to conduit organizations that can help you to reach non-bill paying and other target audiences including:
   Citizens assistance offices to request that they place your materials
   in their lobbies or waiting rooms;
   Health insurers who can include your messages in their regular
   communications to their provider network and members;
   Outlets that accept government payment for goods and services,
      i             ,     I     I   c  j          wrr/-                  where available.
   such as supermarkets that take rood stamps or WIC coupons;
TIP: While systems serving over
100,000 customers are required to
provide information on their system
or other publicly accessible Web site,
systems of all sizes are encouraged to
also utilize electronic dissemination
 *  Low income/HUD housing where you can place posters; and
 *  Non-profit organizations, such as soup kitchens, religious organizations, and others, that provide services
   to people who may not receive a water bill.

You should also share key information and messages with all of your employees. Your system's employees are
all ambassadors for the system  as they go about doing their work. Keeping them well informed is critical, as
they will get questions and should be prepared to address issues from your customers.

It is ideal to establish relationships and mechanisms for sharing information with such conduit organizations
before an action level exceedance occurs. By coordinating with these groups, you can establish a ready-to-go
plan for communication, build understanding of why information about lead in drinking water is important
and why young children, infants, and pregnant women need to know about lead in drinking water, and
prepare staff at these organizations to discuss lead health risks.

Step 6: Determine Your Outreach Material Needs	
The next step you should take  in designing your PE program is
determining what materials you will provide and how you will make
them available. As you are identifying how best to reach your target
audiences, keep in mind any production processes that will need to
occur between the time you finalize your materials and the time they
are ready for distribution.
 >  Identify approximately how many copies of brochure, pamphlets,  and posters you will need to print for
   quick distribution. Be sure to make extra copies of all materials should you need to distribute several
   mailings during the exceedance.
>  Determine  if your system has the capability, to quickly  generate these materials and in the needed
   quantities.
>  Consider financial needs and resources of outreach activities, (i.e. printing costs).
TIP: Systems should identify
groups (e.g. schools or community
organizations) that can translate PE
materials for non-English consumers.
                                                                                                        23

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
                                                                                                   ,,,!„
                                                                           TIP: When preparing your materials,
                                                                           keep in mind the variety of
                                                                           customers that you serve and their
                                                                           unique needs (Step 2). For example,
                                                                           your audience research will tell you if
                                                                           you have a large Hispanic population
                                                                           in your service area. You may learn
                                                                           from your partner organizations that
                                                                           many Hispanics in your community
                                                                           listen to specific radio stations,
                                                                           watch certain television programs,
                                                                           read particular periodicals, and
                                                                           convene at specific locations.
 *•  Identify vendors in your community that can quickly reproduce
   the materials that you need and regularly check in with them to
   ensure that they can meet your needs.
 >  Negotiate an agreement with printers ahead of time so that you are
   not forced to negotiate your terms when you are under pressure to
   meet a deadline.
 >  Ask your community partners if rfiey have the capability to assist
   you with preparation and production of materials.

Assemble additional materials you may want to distribute with your
PE materials, such as fact sheets and other supporting materials on
the health effects of lead. These materials are available at no-cost
from EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1 (800) 426-4791 or EPA's Web site at http://www.epa.gov/
safewater/lead/index.html. In the event of an action level exceedance, you will already have the explanatory
materials your consumers may ask for after receiving your notices.  EPA's materials are updated periodically,
so check the Web site regularly to make sure that you have the most recent versions. The Hotline also
can provide phone numbers for state laboratory certification offices where consumers can get a list of labs
certified to conduct lead testing.

Step 7: Update Your PE Program Plan^	

During the course of your monitoring activities  (and if there is no  exceedance), you should update your PE
Program Plan periodically. Contact all  of your community partners (if you have not done so on a regular
basis) and determine if you have correct contact information.  Update any material templates you have
created (with any new information on corrosion control  or other activities undertaken by your water system
to control lead in drinking water).  Contact all of the printers and  vendors that you  will use to produce your
materials in the event of an exceedance. Update your local public health agencies and providers about your
lead program and any activities you are taking to reduce lead and monitor drinking  water supplies.  Finally,
contact your  local media to update them on your efforts  and to address any questions they may have about
your systems' monitoring or corrosion control activities.

By keeping your plan updated and maintaining regular contact with your community partners and the
media, you will ensure that,  should you have an exceedance, you will have all of the  mechanisms in place to
quickly and effectively respond with your PE program.
24

-------
                                                     Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                    A Guide for Community Water Systems
Section 3

Implementing  Your Public Education  Program

A lead action level exceedance triggers the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) requirements for Public Education
(PE) and establishes a timeline for performing required activities. In most cases, your PE activities must
be implemented within 60 days of the end of the monitoring period in which the exceedence occured. See
Section 1 to review the specific requirements for PE if you have an
exceedance.
Section 2 of this guidance document outlined the suggested steps you
should take to design your PE program, prior to an exceedance.  In
this section, key activities for implementing your PE program are
presented. These activities include:

>  Produce Your PE Materials

>  Distribute Your PE Materials

>•  Conduct Media Outreach

>  Communicate Directly with the Public

*  Conclude Your PE Activities (at the End of the Exceedance)
TIP: It is important to remember
that education programs can
only be effective when they
are administered over time.
Competing demands for
people's attention—information
overload—can be a significant
impediment to understanding.
Therefore, you should meet the
initial PE requirements as soon as
possible and pace your additional
PE activities over several months
to ensure that your public has
multiple opportunities to receive
your messages.
                                                                                                   25

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems
      The checklist below provides the key activities your program will need to take in order to effectively
      implement the PE requirements and reach your key audiences. Refer to Appendix B for a checklist you can
      tear out and use as you complete your activities.
        Checklist for Implementing Your PE Program

        •s  Notify your Primacy Agency of an action level exceedance triggering your PE program.

        S  Notify your system's decision maker (owner or president) of the exceedance.

        s  Review your PE requirements (Section 1) and the timeline for delivering PE materials (see
            Tables 2 or 3 on Pages 8 or 9).

        S  Notify your communication or outreach team of the exceedance and enlist their assistance
            in implementing your plan.

        s  Inform all of your employees about your activities so that they can respond to customer
            questions or issues.

        •S  Implement your phone tree and contact your conduit organizations to let them know that
            an exceedance has occurred and that you will be sending them materials for distribution.

        s  Update your PE material templates with information on the exceedance, actions you are
            taking to address it, and any other relevant information.

        •S  Identify groups (e.g. schools and community organizations) that can translate PE materials
            for non-English consumers.

        s  Prepare mailing labels for conduit  organizations and other dissemination mechanisms.

        s  Duplicate your pamphlets, flyers, posters, or other printed materials and prepare to deliver
            them to your customers and conduit organizations.

        •s  Meet with representatives from  your local health agency (in person or by phone) to alert
            them to the exceedance and provide them with materials they can distribute to the public.

        •S  Send a press release to your local media outlets (print, TV, and radio).

        •S  Reach out to your established media contacts and work with them to distribute your key
            messages.

        s  Coordinate with your spokesperson/spokespeople to conduct media interviews.

        •S  Document your PE activities and report back to your Primacy Agency on completion of
            activities as required.

        s  Update your system's Web site (if applicable) to include PE materials and key messages  for
            the public.

        •S  Schedule and conduct public meetings as needed.

        s  Continue to conduct your monitoring activities as required.

        S  Notify the public when the action  level exceedance has ended.
26

-------
                                                         Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                          A Guide for Community Water Systems
Produce Your PE Materials	

A critical first step in implementing your PE program in
the event of an exceedance is to produce the materials
you have determined in your planning that you will need
to distribute to your target audiences. The following
information will help you finalize your materials in
accordance with the LCR requirements and prepare
them- for quick delivery to your conduit organizations
and your community.

Printed  Materials
See Section 1  for a reminder of the LCR requirements
for content for PE materials.

Appendix B provides template pamphlets with the
mandatory language systems must provide to their
customers. Note that electronic fill in the blank versions
of these materials are available on the internet at www.
epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html for
systems to  update and customize the documents with
their system-specific information.

Press Releases or Media Notices
Water systems are required to provide two press releases per
year for the duration of the exceedance. (See Section 1).

Your press  releases should be brief informational
notices that are ready to be distributed to local
press representatives. Always include the name and
phone number of an informed contact so that media
representatives can obtain more information and  cover
the issue more fully than presented in a news release. (A
sample press release template is provided in Appendix
B). When conducting your planning, ask your media
contacts  what would make a press release stand out to
them and what they are most likely to publish so  that
you can plan ahead to secure media coverage in the event
of an exceedance.
Tips for Creating PE Materials
That Work

>  Place the most important information
   first.  Most readers only read the top half
   of printed materials and focus on large
   text such as headings and bolded text. The
   most important information, especially
   instructions to protect consumers' health,
   should be placed on the top half of the
   notice in large print. Smaller type is
   appropriate for less critical elements.

>  Limit wordiness. A question and answer
   or heading and subheading format is
   easy to read and guides readers to the
   information that is likely to concern them.
   Risk communication studies have shown
   that when dealing with potential health
   risks, people become emotional and have
   difficulty processing information. The
   best way to help the public understand
   your messages is to communicate a
   limited number of messages and to strive
   for consistency of messaging across all
   communications media. If people hear your
   few, simple messages over and over again,
   they are more likely to accurately estimate
   their risks and to take the right steps to
   manage them.

>  Use graphics, such as photographs or
   drawings, to illustrate your messages.
   Wherever possible, provide an image that
   describes the actions the public should take
   to protect themselves from potential health
   risks.

>  Highlight the name of your system,
   especially where people in your area are
   served by more than one water system. You
   may also want to prepare a map showing
   the area you serve, especially if it extends
   beyond city limits. You may want to print
   materials on your system's letterhead
   which, coupled with the material's title, will
   help people recognize that it is important.
                                                                                                          27

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems


       Material Templates
       Appendix B contains templates for a variety of public education materials that your system can use to support
       your efforts.  These templates include:

       > Water Bill Insert Statement                    * Print Advertisement
       *• Brochure                                     > Listserv or Web site Announcement
       *• Poster                                       > Public Service Announcement (text for a
       * Press Release                                   radio or television PSA
                                                      * Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results

       Additional Materials
       Table 5 contains a list of suggested materials that may be useful in conducting additional PE outreach
       activities.

       Fact sheets - Provide basic, objective, detailed information on an issue or topic.  Fact sheets can provide
       information about the problem, recommended consumer actions, health risks, actions being taken, and
       treatment goals. Fact sheets should be easily understood by the broadest spectrum of audiences.

       Tip  sheets and brochures - Outline specific actions residents should take. They should be clear, concise,
       and  present the action steps in a simplified manner.

       Talking points - Give water system representatives and expert spokespeople tips on communicating
       about the exceedance and the treatment process. The talking points highlight key messages that should be
       delivered to the target audience in a clear and effective manner.

       Charts and illustrations - Visuals can help to convey complex messages that may be difficult to understand
       or to communicate textually.  Examples include: the incidence of elevated lead levels in homes with and
       without lead  service lines, and the relative numbers of homes in each category; and a "source to tap"
       representation of how water gets from  the source to customers' taps.

       Fliers - If you plan to host public meetings, fliers can be used to publicize upcoming meetings and other
       events.  They should be translated into the most common languages spoken among the target audience.

       Technical/medical materials - Doctors, nurses, clinic workers, and other health care professionals may
       prefer technical information about the potential health effects of lead in drinking water.
28

-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                         A Guide for Community Water Systems
Deliver Your PE Materials
Once you have produced your PE materials, the next step is to deliver them through the various conduit
organizations and communications channels that you identified in your program design (See Section 2, Step 6).
Table 5. Suggestions for Materials in Various Communications Venues
Materials
Fact sheets
Tip sheets
Talking points
Press releases
Charts and
illustrations
Fliers
Public service
materials
Technical/ medical
materials
Communication Routes
> Insert in media press kits
•• Include in conduit organization mailings
»• Hand out at public meetings
»• Include in conduit organization mailings
»• Hand out at public meetings
>• Use for press events
> Use at public meeting presentations
> Provide to utility telephone receptionists or others taking calls from the public
> Issue in advance of press events and public meetings
* Provide as graphics to television stations and print media
>• Display and distribute as handouts at public meetings
> Use in briefing slides or display as posters for press events and public
meetings
> Distribute in advance of public meetings
> Distribute PSAs to radio and television stations and print media
* Include in conduit organizations mailings
> Distribute at public meetings
> Distribute to community leaders and health care professionals
                                                                   TIP: Remember that people who
                                                                   live in apartment complexes or other
                                                                   housing units where the water bill
                                                                   is paid by a landlord or a supervisor
                                                                   will not be on your mailing list.
                                                                   The landlord or supervisor for such
                                                                   buildings should be mailed extra bill
                                                                   inserts for distribution to residents.
Bill Inserts
Many CWSs periodically enclose special information notices or
inserts in their customers' water bills. If you already provide this
service, you may choose to dedicate a particular notice to the topic
of lead in drinking water. Bill inserts are relatively inexpensive to
produce — especially if you already have a regular notice service. If
you do not currently provide such a service, you can use the notice
provided in Appendix B. Remember: in an exceedance you are
required to provide lead information no less than quarterly on each
water bill using the required language.

Local Newspapers
CWSs must deliver information within 60 days after the end of the monitoring period in which the
exceedance occurred  and twice every 12 months on a schedule agreed upon with the Primacy Agency to
editorial departments of the major daily and weekly newspapers circulated throughout the community.
Newspapers are always  in search of newsworthy items and will often publish feature articles based on a
news release or coverage of a press conference. You should use all
major daily and weekly newspapers to get your message delivered.
Radio and Television Stations
Radio and television stations are a prime source of information for
most people. Radio and television news programs often feature brief
TIP: Under the LCR, small systems
(serving 3,300 or fewer people) are no
longer required to deliver PSAs. Check
with your State Primacy Agency to be
sure that you are exempt from this
requirement.
                                                                                                        29

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
       spots based on a press release or coverage of a press conference. The stations also broadcast brief PSAs as a
       community service. In addition, they feature news briefs, special interest features, and talk shows on local
       issues of interest. Large CWSs should promote radio and television coverage of lead in drinking water issues
       as an effective way to get the message delivered to a mass audience at no cost.

       Public Service Announcements
       Section I41.85(b) of the regulation does not specify the minimum
       content of the public education language to be broadcast to
       customers.  A PSA can be broadcast on either radio or television.
       A PSA is very brief (e.g., 20 seconds) and can provide far-reaching,
       low-cost publicity for your program. A pre-taped or written
       announcement can be provided to radio stations; the text for a
       video spot or an actual videotaped message can be  provided to television stations.

       EPA encourages CWSs to submit PSAs to five radio or television stations with the largest audiences in the
       community. If you select this method, PSAs must be submitted once every twelve months for as long as the
       system continues to exceed the lead action level.

       Conduct Media Outreach
                                                                  TIP: The Short Term revisions to the LCR
                                                                  do not require water systems to produce
                                                                  PSAs. However, PSAs are one of the
                                                                  additional activities that large and small
                                                                  water systems can provide to meet the
                                                                  additional PE requirements.
                                                                         TIP: Whenever possible, visit your media
                                                                         contacts in person to request coverage.
To help disseminate your PE messages, call on your established
media contacts who already understand your mission to inform
and protect the public. When you pitch messages to newspapers,
TV, or radio outlets, clearly explain what information you are
trying to communicate and why. Explain to  the media in clear and open terms what you are required to do
to communicate about an action level exceedance and make it easy for them to identify the most important
information, including information that led  to detection of the action level exceedance, the populations
most at risk from elevated lead levels in drinking water and  potential health effects, actions consumers can
take to reduce their risks, and actions your water system is taking to address the problem. The easier you
make it for the media to accurately cover your story, the more likely you are to get the results you want.
         TIP: In addition to sending the required press releases
         or notifications, consider:
         *   Offering a spokesperson to be interviewed on
            the air. Ideally, you have identified and prepped
            spokespeople to understand your program and
            how to deal with the pressures associated with
            an interview, so that they will seem calm (and not
            evasive or defensive).
         >   Writing a draft story or an op-ed for the newspaper
            and providing a completed draft to an editor.
         >   Providing radio and television programs with talking
            points, sources for impartial information (such as
            links to the EPA or CDC Web-based information
            on lead), contacts at the health department, and
            suggestions .of people they can interview for a story.
         >   Providing statistics, charts, graphics (photographs,
            video footage, drawings, maps) along with your
            text to make it easy for different types of media to
            broadcast your story.
                                                    When you send press releases or notices to radio
                                                    and TV stations and newspapers, write "PRESS
                                                    RELEASE FOR DRINKING WATER NOTICE"
                                                    at the top of the notice to emphasize its importance
                                                    and ensure that it will be printed or aired in a timely
                                                    manner.

                                                    Don't be upset if a media story isn't exactly as
                                                    you would want it, but politely tell a reporter if a
                                                    significant piece of information is wrong or missing
                                                    so that they can get the correct information out to
                                                    the public.

                                                    If a newspaper will not publish a story or press
                                                    release, you may want to consider buying space
                                                    to print the notice in its entirety, though it is not
                                                    required. You should buy an advertisement as close
30

-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                         A Guide for Community Water Systems
to the front of the paper as possible and make it large
enough that people will easily see it. Your initial planning
should have determined if this may be a concern and if you
should budget for purchasing advertisement space.

Communicate Directly with the Public
Effective PE campaigns can minimize the chances of
overreaction to an action level exceedance and can help
focus your community's attention on the source of a
problem. A robust PE campaign that explains what an
exceedance means and the specific steps you are taking
to address the issue can be an excellent public relations
tool. Such a campaign will help to create a partnership
between you and your customers that demonstrates your
commitment to providing safe water and reduces the
prevalence of the "us versus them" mentality.
                                                           Tips for Working with the Media
                                                           >  Be truthful and up-front about local water
                                                              quality issues and the exceedance.
                                                           >  Don't be defensive when answering
                                                              questions.
                                                           >  Answer questions as well as you can, but
                                                              don't be afraid to say that you need to check
                                                              on something if there is a question you can't
                                                              answer (and once you find the information,
                                                              quickly report back on what you've found).
                                                           >  Keep in mind that reporters are not familiar
                                                              with State or Federal requirements for safe
                                                              drinking water - avoid technical jargon!
                                                           >  Provide additional sources of information
                                                              (for instance, referrals to State contacts, local
                                                              experts, or EPA fact sheets).
                                                           >  Be sensitive to the fact that reporters may be
                                                              working on tight deadlines.
                                                           >   Provide a list of the elements that the media
                                                              must address to adequately inform the public
                                                              about potential risks and how to manage
                                                              them.
Quickly distributing the required and recommended
materials to all your target populations will help reduce
the chance that people will become alarmed and overreact
to information about an exceedance. If you have planned
your distribution of materials through communication
channels and partners effectively and established close relationships with conduits, your materials should reach
your community promptly and educate them about the issue.

Public Meetings
In addition to distributing messages and materials to your community, public meetings are an effective
avenue for directly communicating with your audiences about the exceedance and your activities to address
it. Well advertised public meetings provide a forum where the public can ask questions and meet individuals
responsible for addressing the lead issue.  Many public meeting formats and styles are available.  A few
options are described below.

Speakers' forums feature formal presentations by a speaker or group of speakers, with questions taken
during or after their presentations. This format ensures that the message is specific and that everyone
receives the same message, and offers the greatest control over the content, flow, and outcome of the event.
However, it allows limited interaction with the audience, with the exception of a brief question and answer
period, and therefore  restricts the amount of public feedback received.

In round table discussions, the public is given an opportunity to present their opinion or ask questions in a
facilitated discussion.  This format can be a facilitated  open dialogue among all participants, or small group
discussions between members of the public with facilitators or experts moderating the conversations.  Like
testimony, round table discussions can offer a great deal of interaction and opinion sharing, and are a good
way to gauge public opinion. Likewise, planners have little control over the content.  All participants may
not receive the same message, especially where multiple conversations take place simultaneously.

Open houses are a one-on-one information  exchange  format, where experts sit at tables or booths and the
public is invited to talk to them, share their concerns, and ask questions. Written materials can be available
                                                                                                         31

-------

       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
       for the public to take with them.  In this informal
       format, the public can "digest" what they want,
       either a brief, direct answer to a question or
       detailed information.  All participants do not
       receive the same message (i.e., what they learn
       depends on what they ask). While there is no
       way to anticipate the content of topics raised, this
       approach offers more control than other open
       forums because the exchange is one-on-one, not
       across a large group.

       Availability sessions combine structured speakers
       forums and open houses. Prior to formal
       presentations, speakers are available to talk to
       people and answer questions. The structured
       presentations offer an opportunity to disseminate
       the message as planned.  The one-on-one
       interaction supplements the formal information
       exchange by giving citizens an opportunity to ask
       questions or speak to an involved party about their
       concerns. This dialog also can help the speakers
       anticipate questions or concerns that may be raised
       in front of reporters and a large audience.

       Conclude Your PE Activities  at the
       End of the Exceedance
Considerations for Public Meetings

Meeting planning is an involved process that requires
many detailed steps.
>  Public meetings should be held as soon as possible
   following an exceedance. The availability of
   newsworthy information generates public interest
   and increases the likelihood of a high turnout at
   meetings. Proper spacing of the meetings over time
   is important to keep the media and public interested
   in the issue.
>  Scheduling of public meetings should take into
   consideration other events that could pose conflicts,
   such as the school calendar (e.g., start of school,
   vacations), other community meetings, holidays, or
   other events of importance to the target audience.
>  Meeting site selection should be based on attracting
   the greatest variety of interested audience segments.
   Meetings should be geographically distributed  •
   throughout the community. Selecting locations
   that are convenient to large numbers of people in
   certain groups can increase interest and boost media
   coverage geared to those groups.
>  Proper publicity is a crucial planning step for each
   public event, because a high turnout is needed to
   ensure the widest distribution of the message.  A
   few outreach considerations for public meetings are:
   •  Where target populations are clustered in a
      few apartment communities, meeting notices
      should be posted on bulletin boards, in hallways,
      laundry rooms, and other public areas; placed
      as advertisements or articles in community
      newsletters; or be advertised through mailings to
      each apartment.
   •  Local elected officials should be invited, and
      receive "courtesy calls" in advance of any public
      advertising.
   •  Translators should be provided at meetings held
      in areas with significant non-English speaking
      populations. Provide sign-language interpreters
      for the hearing impaired.
      Your public education program is required to
      provide ongoing messages until the action level
      exceedance has ended. This continued education
      effort will keep your public informed about any
      continuing issues related to lead in drinking water
      and keep them abreast of progress your system
      is making toward resolving  the problem.  Once
      the issue has been resolved,  continue to provide
      the public information about lead in drinking
      water. Your Consumer Confidence Report is an
      opportunity to provide ongoing education to your
      customers about the importance of addressing lead
      in drinking water and your program's monitoring
      and education activities. (See Section 1 for required language for use in CCRs.)

      After the exceedance has ended, conducting follow-up focus group testing with your customers can help to
      ensure that the messages in  your materials were received as intended and that all target audiences understood
      your materials.  The results  of such an analysis can help mold future efforts and guide you on areas where
      you may want to refine your planning.
32

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

Media surveys can assess how well the information was reported by television and radio stations and the
press.  Media coverage can be monitored by reviewing the Web sites of local media outlets, or purchasing
the services of media surveillance firms.  Relevant information includes the frequency of stories, the media
through which they were reported, and the content of the stories (e.g., whether the most important facts
were covered or if any erroneous information was reported).
Polling citizens can directly gauge their opinion of the outreach by determining citizens' awareness of the
exceedance, how they perceived the information, where they received the information,  and if they were
satisfied with and could understand it.  The telephone is the most common polling avenue, however, phone
polls should be undertaken and interpreted with caution, as the subjects  of a phone survey may not include
low income residents with no telephone (door-to-door surveys are an option in these areas).  Pollsters should
be able to speak all of the languages represented in the service area. Your conduit organizations should be
surveyed as well.


Conclusion

The steps outlined in this guidance document and the tips provided are designed to provide you with all
of the background you need to design and implement an effective PE program. Following the guidance
provided will allow you to reach out to all members of your community,  including those that are the most
vulnerable to adverse health effects from lead exposure, with messages and delivery methods that meet your
community's diverse communication needs. The partnerships you create with your local media, public
health  community, and other key partners can serve as important ties for all of your work, regardless of
whether your system experiences an exceedance. Most importantly, the guidance provided in this document
establishes an effective framework for communicating with your public about the many issues your water
system addresses.
                                                                                                      33

-------

-------
    Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
               A Guide for Community Water Systems
              Appendix A
Frequently Asked Questions

-------
Lead  in Drinking Water - Frequently Asked  Questions

Template*

What are the Sources of Lead?
Lead is a common metal found in the environment.  Drinking water is one possible source of lead exposure.
The main sources of lead exposure are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust or soil, and some
plumbing materials.  In addition, lead can be found in certain types of pottery, pewter, brass fixtures, and
cosmetics.  Other sources of lead include exposures in the work place and exposure from certain hobbies
(lead dust can be carried on clothing and shoes.)  Lead is found in some toys, some playground equipment,
and some children's metal jewelry. Everyone, especially children, should be encouraged to regularly wash
their hands to reduce lead dust exposure.

Why is there lead in my drinking water?
Lead is not usually found in water that comes from wells or water treatment plants. More commonly lead
can enter drinking water when the water comes in contact with plumbing materials such as lead pipes or
lead solder, or when it comes in contact with faucets, valves, and other components made of brass (brass may
have lead in it). This interaction is referred to as corrosion.

Even though your public water supplier may deliver water that meets all federal and state standards for lead,
you may end up with elevated lead levels in your drinking water because of the plumbing in your home.

What is the water system doing about it?
Our water system is working to educate the public about steps for reducing exposure to lead in drinking
water and the health risks associated with exposure to lead.  In addition, our water system is conducting
a number of activities aimed at reducing high lead levels and possible exposures.  For example [insert
information on your system's corrosion control program; lead service line replacement efforts; and/or other
activities you are undertaking to reduce lead in drinking water in your community.]

What can I do to make my  water safer?
Flush your pipes before drinking, and only use cold water for cooking     I _._  "            "  i
     '    r r              °                                      TIP: If you are considering
                                                                   replacing lead containing plumbing
                                                                   fixtures, keep in mind that
                                                                   plumbing fixtures labeled lead-free
                                                                   may have up to 8% lead.
and drinking. The more time water has been sitting in your home's
pipes, the more lead it may contain. Anytime the water in a particular
faucet has not been used for six hours or longer, "flush" your cold-water
pipes by running the water until it becomes as cold as it will get. This
could take as little as five to thirty seconds if there has been recent heavy
water use such as showering or toilet flushing. Otherwise, it could take two minutes or longer. Your water
utility will inform you if longer flushing times are needed to respond to local conditions.  Please note that
flushing may not be effective in high-rise buildings.

Use only water from the cold-water tap for drinking, cooking, and especially for making baby formula. Hot
water is likely to contain higher levels of lead.

You may also consider using a lead reducing filter tested and certified by an independent third party for such
ability per  the standards set by NSF International.
* Note: These questions and answers are provided to water systems to help address the types of questions that may arise from customers during
implementation of a PE Program. This information or the language above should not be used as a substitute for the mandatory content required
under the LCR, as outlined in Section 1.

-------
                                                      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                     A Guide for Community Water Systems


 What will lead do to me or my family?
 Lead is a toxic metal that is harmful to human health when it is ingested or inhaled. The greatest risk it to
 infants, young children, and pregnant women.  Small amounts slow down normal mental development in
 growing children and alter the development of other organs and systems. The effects of lead on the brain
 are associated with lowered IQ in children. Adults with kidney problems and high blood pressure are more
 likely to be affected by low levels of lead than the general population. Lead is stored in the bones allowing
 it to be released even after exposure stops. The presence in bone increases the concern for exposure at all
 points of the life cycle.
 EPA estimates that 10 to 20 percent of human exposure to lead may come from lead in  drinking water.
 Infants who consume mostly formula prepared with tap water can receive 40 to 60 percent of their exposure
 to lead from drinking water.

 Does boiling water remove lead?
 No, boiling water does not remove lead. Boiling water can concentrate lead levels and increase the amount of
 lead in water.

 If 1 boil water for making formula, will it increase or remove lead?
 Boiling water will concentrate  lead levels, which can increase the amount of lead in the water. Always flush
 your faucet and use water from the cold water tap when making formula.

 Why can't I use hot water from the tap for drinking, cooking, or making baby
 formula?
. Hot water dissolves lead more quickly than cold water and is therefore more likely to contain greater
 amounts of lead. Never use water from the hot water tap for drinking, cooking, or making baby formula.

 Will my filter remove lead?
 Some filters can remove lead from drinking water. If you use a filter, be sure to get one that is tested and
 certified by an independent third party per the standards developed by NSF International. Be sure to
 maintain and replace a filter device in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to protect water
 quality.

 My neighbors got their water tested and found lead. Is my water safe/are my
 test results accurate?
 Each home should be tested separately for lead. Lead usually gets into drinking water through contact with
 plumbing materials such as lead pipes or lead solder, or faucets, valves, and fixtures made of brass (brass
 contains some lead). Since each home has different plumbing pipes and materials, test results are likely to be
 different for each home.

 Can I get my water tested for lead?
 Yes. EPA recommends testing your water for lead by a certified laboratory; lists are available from your state
 or local drinking water authority. Testing costs between $20 and $ 100. Since you cannot see, taste, or smell
 lead dissolved in water, testing  is the only sure way of telling whether  there are elevated levels of lead in your
 drinking water. You should be particularly suspicious if your home has lead pipes (lead is a dull gray metal
 that is soft enough to be easily  scratched with a house key), if you see  signs of corrosion  (frequent leaks,
 rust-colored water, stained dishes or laundry), or if your non-plastic plumbing is less than five years old. Your
 water supplier may have useful information,  including whether the service connector used in your home
 or area is made of lead. Testing is especially important in high-rise buildings where flushing may not be
 effective.
                                                                                                   37

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      What do you mean when you say the Action Level has been exceeded?
      The action level for lead is a level at which the regulatory agency is concerned about corrosion and requires
      water systems to take additional steps to protect users of the water. Our water system is required to notify the
      public when our test results show levels of lead above the 15 ppb action level in >10% of samples collected.

      Is there anything else I can do beyond flushing my tap or buying bottled water?
      Test your water first to determine whether your water has elevated levels of lead. If there is lead in your
      water, you may want to consider buying a water filter to lower lead levels. Replacing pipes and fixtures with
      products certified against NSF/ANSI Standard 61 can lower lead levels. In addition, be sure to clean all
      water outlet screens regularly to remove small sediments that may  contain lead.

      Where can I get  more information on lead?
      For more information, visit www.epa.gov/leador call EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at
      1-800-426-4791. Your state or local public health department will also be able to provide information about
      lead.
38

-------
                                           Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems
                                                        Appendix B
                        Public  Education  Material Templates*
                        > Checklist for Implementing Your PE Program
                        > General Public Education Notice and ListServ/Email
                          Announcement
                        »• Web site Announcement
                        > Public Service Announcement
                        »• Water Bill Statement/Insert
                        > Press Release
                        > Brochure
                        * Poster
                        > Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results
Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html

-------

-------
                                                    Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                   A Guide for Community Water Systems
  Checklist for Implementing Your PE Program

  D  Notify your Primacy Agency of an action level exceedance triggering your PE program.

  D  Notify your system's decision maker(s) of the exceedance.

  D  Review your PE requirements (Section 1) and the timeline for delivering PE materials (see
      Tables 2 or 3 on Pages 8 or 9).

  D  Notify your communication or outreach team of the exceedance and enlist their assistance
      in implementing your plan.

  D  Inform all of your employees about your activities so that they can respond to customer
      questions or issues.

  D  Implement your phone tree and contact your conduit organizations to let them know that
      an exceedance has occurred and that you will be sending them materials for distribution.

  D  Update your PE  material templates with information on the exceedance, actions you are
      taking to address it, and any other relevant information.

  D  Identify groups (e.g. schools and community organizations) that can translate PE materials
      for non-English consumers.

  D  Prepare mailing  labels for conduit organizations and other dissemination mechanisms.

  D  Duplicate your pamphlets, flyers, posters, or other printed  materials and prepare to deliver
      them to your customers and conduit organizations.

  D  Meet with representatives from your local health agency (in person or by phone) to alert
      them to the exceedance and provide them with materials they can distribute to the public.

  D  Send a press release to your local media outlets (print, TV, and radio).

  D  Reach out to your established media contacts and work with them to distribute your key
      messages.

  D  Coordinate with your spokesperson/spokespeople to conduct media interviews.

  D  Document your  PE activities and  report back to your Primacy Agency on  completion of
      activities as required.

  D  Update your system's Web site (if required) to include PE materials and key messages for
      the public.

  D  Schedule and conduct public meetings as needed.

  D  Continue to conduct your monitoring activities  as required.

  D  Notify the public when the action level exceedance has ended.
Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html


                                                                                                41

-------

-------
                                                      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                      A Guide for Community Water Systems


 General Public Education  Notice and  ListServ/Email

 Announcement Template
 The following language meets the revised PE requirements under the 2007 short-term revisions and
 clarifications  to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). Your notice must include the topic areas in bold
 below.  Anything in italics under each topic area is required language and cannot be changed while anything
 in regular text must be covered, but you have the flexibility to use either the suggested language or your own
 words to cover these topics.

 Your notice must begin with the following opening statement (though you have the option to include a title
 of the pamphlet or brochure of your choosing):

 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT LEAD IN YOUR DRINKING WATER
 [Insert name of water system] found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/buildings. Lead can
 cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and children 6 years and younger. Please read this
 notice closely to see what you can do to reduce lead in your drinking water.

 Health Effects of Lead
 Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources. It can
 cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen
 to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and pregnant women.
 Scientists have linked the effects of lead on the brain with lowered IQ in children. Adults with kidney problems
 and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults. Lead is stored in the bones
 and it can be released later in life.  During pregnancy, the child receives lead from the mother's bones, which may
 affect brain development.

 Sources of Lead
 Lead is a common metal found in the environment. Drinking water is one possible source of lead exposure.
 The main sources of lead exposure are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust or soil, and some
 plumbing materials. In addition, lead can be found in certain types of pottery, pewter, brass fixtures, food,
 and cosmetics. Other sources include exposure in the work place and exposure from certain hobbies  (lead
 can be carried on clothing or shoes). Lead is found in some toys, some playground equipment, and some
 children's metal jewelry.
 Brass faucets,  fittings, and valves, including those advertised as "lead-free," may contribute lead to drinking
 water. The law currently allows end-use brass fixtures, such as faucets, with up to 8 percent lead to be
 labeled as "lead free."

 [Insert utility specific information describing your community's source water - e.g. "The source of water
 from XX Reservoir does not contain lead" or "Community X does not have any lead in its source water or
 water mains in the street."]  When water is in contact with pipes [or service lines] or plumbing that contains
 lead for  several hours, the lead may enter drinking water. Homes built before 1988 are more likely to have
 lead pipes or lead solder.

 EPA estimates that 10 to 20 percent of a person's potential exposure to lead may come from drinking water.
 Infants who consume mostly formula mixed with lead-containing water can receive 40 to 60 percent  of their
 exposure to lead from drinking water.
 Don't forget about other sources of lead such as lead paint, lead dust, and lead in soil. Wash your children's
 hands and toys often as they can  come into contact with dirt and dust containing lead.
"Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html

                                                                                                    43

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems


       Steps You Can Take To Reduce Your Exposure To Lead In Your Water
       1.  Run your water to flush out lead.  Run water for 15-30 seconds to flush lead from interior plumbing
          [or insert a different flushing time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing
          time would better reduce lead exposure in your community and if the State Primacy Agency approves
          the wording] or until it becomes cold or reaches a steady temperature before using it for drinking or
          cooking, if it hasn't been used for several hours. [It is likely that systems with lead service lines will need
          to collect data to determine the appropriate flushing time for lead service lines.]1
       2.  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. Do not use water from the hot water tap to make baby
          formula.
       3.  Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will not reduce lead.
       4.  Look for alternative sources or treatment of water. You may want to consider purchasing bottled
          water or a water filter.  Read the package to be sure the filter is approved to reduce lead or contact NSF
          International at 800-NSF-8010 or www.nsf.org for information on performance standards for water
          filters. Be sure  to maintain and replace a filter device in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
          to protect water quality.
       5.  Test your water for lead.  Call us at [insert phone number for your water system] to find out how to get
          your water tested  for lead. [Include information on your water system's testing program. For example,
          do you provide free testing?  Are there labs in your area that are certified to do lead in water testing?]
       6.  Get your child's blood tested.  Contact your local health department or healthcare provider to find out
          how you can  get your child tested for lead if you are concerned about exposure.
       7.  Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead.  Brass faucets, fittings, and valves,  including
          those advertised as "lead-free,"  may contribute lead to drinking water.  The law currently allows end-
          use brass fixtures,  such  as faucets, with up to 8% lead to be labeled as "lead free." Visit the Web site at
          www.nsf.org to learn more about lead-containing plumbing fixtures.

       What Happened? What is Being Done?
       [Insert information about how and when the exceedance was discovered in your community and provide
       information  on the source(s) of lead in the drinking water, if known.]
       [Insert information about what your system is doing to reduce lead levels in homes in your community.]
       [Insert information about lead service lines in your community, how a consumer can find out of they have a
       lead service line, what your water system is doing to replace lead service lines, etc.]
       [Insert information about the history of lead levels in tap water samples in your community.  For example,
       have they declined substantially over time? Have they  been low and risen recently? Is there a known reason
       for any lead level changes?]

       For More  information
       Call us at [Insert Number]  (if applicable) or visit our Web site at [insert Web site Here]. For more information
       on reducing lead exposure around your home/building and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.
       epa.gov/lead or contact your health care provider.

       [We recommend you  include the name of your system and the date that the information is being
       distributed, along with the state water system ID, somewhere on the notice.]
       'The bracketed language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials. It is designed to alert systems that, where applicable,
       lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
       'Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
44

-------
                                                     Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                    A Guide for Community Water Systems


 General Public  Education Notice and  ListServ/Email

 Announcement Template (Spanish)
 The following language meets the revised PE requirements under the 2007 short-term revisions and
 clarifications to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). Your notice must include the topic areas in bold
 below. Anything in italics under each topic area is required language and cannot be changed while anything
 in regular text must be covered, but you have the flexibility to use either the suggested language or your own
 words to cover these topics.

 Your notice must begin with the following opening statement (though you have the option to include a title
 of the pamphlet or brochure of your choosing):

 ENFORMACION IMPORTAIMTE ACERCA DEL PLOMO EN  SU AGUA POTABLE
 [Insert name of water system] ha encontrado altos niveles de plomo en el agua potable de algunos domiciliosy
 edificios. El plomo puede causar serios problemas a la salud, especialmente a las mujeres encintas y a los ninos de 6
 anos o menores. For favor lea esta informacion atentamente para ver que puede hacer para reducir el plomo en su
 agua potable.

 Efectos del plomo en la salud
 El plomo puede causar serios problemas de salud si cantidades excesivas provenientes del agua potable, u otras
fuentes, se introducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al cerebro y a los rinones y tambien puede interferir en la
produccion de globulos rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las paries de su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de
 exposicion al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de baja edady las mujeres encintas. Los cienttficos ban conectado
 los efectos del plomo en el cerebro con coefidentes de inteligencia mas reducidos en los ninos. Niveles bajos de plomo
 tienen un mayor efecto en los adultos con problemas de rinon y de alta presion sanguinea que en los adultos sanos.
 El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas tarde en la vida. Durante el embarazo, el bebe
 recibeplomo proveniente de los huesos maternos lo cualpuede afectar el desarrollo de su cerebro.

 Fuentes del plomo
 El plomo es un metal comiin que se encuentra en el medio ambiente. El agua potable es una posible fuente
 de exposicion al plomo. Las fuentes principales de exposicion al plomo radican en la pintura con plomo,
 la tierra o el polvo contaminado con plomo y ciertos materiales de fontaneria. Ademas, el plomo puede
 encontrarse en ciertos tipos de ceramica, peltre, accesorios de laton, alimentos y de productos cosmeticos.
 Otras fuentes de exposicion incluyen el lugar de trabajo y la exposicion asociada con ciertos pasatiempos
 (es posible transportar plomo en la ropa o los zapatos). El plomo se halla en algunos juguetes, equipos de
 parques infantiles y en ciertas joyas metalicas para ninos.

 Los grifos, los accesorios y las valvulas de laton, inclusive las que se anuncian estar "sin plomo," pueden
 contribuir al plomo en  el agua potable. En la actualidad la ley permite que los accesorios de uso final de
 laton, tales como los grifos, cuyo tenor puede tener hasta 8 por ciento de plomo, puedan etiquetarse "sin
plomo."

 [Insert utility specific information describing your community's source water - e.g. "The source of water
from XX Reservoir does not contain lead" or "Community X does not have any lead in its  source water
or water mains in the street."]  Cuando el agua entra en contacto con tuberias [o lineas de servicio] o con
fontaneria que contiene plomo y durante varias horas, el plomo puede introducirse en el agua potable. Las
casas construidas antes de 1988 suelen tener tuberias de plomo o soldaduras de plomo.
                                                                                                  45

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems


       La EPA calcula que de 10 a 20 por ciento de la exposicion posible de una persona al plomo puede provenir
       del agua potable. Los infantes que consumen mayormente formula para bebes mezclada con agua que
       contiene plomo pueden ingerir con el agua potable hasta entre 40 y 60 por ciento de su exposicion al plomo.

       No se olvide que existen otras fuentes de plomo tales como la pintura con contenido de plomo, el polvo de
       plomo y el plomo en la tierra. Lave las manos de sus hijos y los juguetes a menudo ya que pueden entrar en
       contacto con el polvo y la suciedad que contienen plomo.

       Medidas que  listed puede emprender para reducir su exposicion al plomo en el
       agua
       1.  Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30 segundos, si no se ha
          utilizado en varias horas,  para eliminar el plomo de la fontaneria interior [or insert a different flushing
          time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead
          exposure in your community and if the State Primacy Agency approves the wording] o hasta que se
          enfrfe o alcance una temperatura constante antes de utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar. [It is likely that
          systems with lead service  lines will need to collect data to determine the appropriate flushing time for
          lead service lines.]'
       2.  Utilice agua fria para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes. No cocine ni beba agua del grifo de
          agua caliente ya que el plomo se disuelve mas facilmente en agua caliente. No utilice el grifo de agua caliente para
          preparar la formula para bebes.
       3.  No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo. El agua hervida no reduce el plomo.
       4.  Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua. Usted puede comprar agua en botellas o un filtro de
          agua. Lea el embalaje para cerciorarse de que el filtro esta aprobado para reducir el plomo, o pongase en
          contacto con NSF International, marcando el 800-NSF-8010 6 visite www.nsf.org para mas informacion
          sobre las normas de rendimiento de los filtros de agua. Asegiirese de mantener y de reemplazar el
          dispositive filtrante conforme a las instrucciones del fabricante para proteger la calidad del agua.
       5.  Pida que se analice su agua para saber si tiene plomo. Llamenos al  [insert phone number for your
          water system]  para saber como obtener un analisis del plomo en su agua. [Include information on your
          water system's testing program. For example, do you provide free testing? Are there labs in your area that
          are certified to do lead in water testing?]
       6.  Pida un analisis de la sangre de sus hijos. Pongase en contacto con el departamento de salud de su
          zona o con su proveedor de atencion medica para saber como puede obtener un analisis de sangre de su
          hijo si es que le preocupa una posible exposicion.
       7.  Identifique y reemplace el equipo de fontaneria que contenga plomo. Los grifos, los accesorios y las
          valvulas de laton, inclusive las que se anuncian estar "sin plomo", pueden contribuir al plomo en el agua
          potable. En la actualidad  la ley permite que los accesorios de uso final de laton, tales como los grifos,
          cuyo tenor puede tener hasta 8 por ciento de plomo, puedan etiquetarse  "sin plomo". Visite el sitio
          Internet en www.nsf.org para aprender mas acerca de los equipos de fontaneria que contienen plomo.

       cQue paso? 
-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems

[insert information about lead service lines in your community, how a consumer can find out if they have a
lead service line, what your water system is doing to replace lead service lines, etc.]

[Insert information about the history of lead levels in tap water samples in your community. For example,
have they declined substantially over time? Have the been low and risen recently? Is there a known reason
for any lead level changes?]

Para mas information
Lldmenos al [Insert Number] (if applicable) 6 visite nuestro sitio Internet [insert Web site Here]. Para mas
information sobre la reduction de la exposition alplomo en su hogar/edificio y los efectos delplomo, visite el sitio
Internet de EPA en www.epa.gov/lead o pongase en contacto con suproveedor de atencion medica.

[We recommend you include the name of your system and the date  that the information is being distributed,
along with the water system ID, somewhere on the notice.]
                                                                                                        47

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems
      Web  Site Announcement  Template
      Large community water systems (serving greater than 100,000 people) are required to provide a Public
      Education notice on a publicly accessible Web site. The following language can serve as an announcement on
      the Web site, but to meet the revised PE requirements under the 2007 short-term revisions and clarifications
      to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), large CWSs should include a link to their General Public Education
      Notice, which includes all of the required language.  Refer to page 45 of this Appendix for the General
      Public Education Notice template. Small systems are also encouraged to utilize electronic information
      dissemination where available.
        IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT LEAD IN YOUR DRINKING WATER
        [Insert name of your water system] found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/
        buildings in our community. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and
        children 6 years and younger. Please read the following notice [insert link to Public Education Notice]
        closely to see what you can do to reduce lead in your drinking water and to learn what [Insert name of
        your water system] is doing to address this problem.

        Call us at [insert your water system phone number] for more information Date [Insert the date posted]

        [Provide your system's General Public Education Notice here or link to it within your Web site.]
      Web Site Announcement Template (Spanish)
      Large community water systems (serving greater than 100,000 people) are required to provide a Public
      Education notice on a publicly accessible Web site.  The following language can serve as an announcement
      on the Web site, but to meet the revised PE requirements under the 2007 short-term revisions and
      clarifications to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), large CWSs should include a link to their General
      Public Education Notice, which includes all of the required language.  Refer to page 47 of this Appendix
      for the General Public Education Notice template.  Small systems are also encouraged to utilize electronic
      information dissemination where available.
        INFORMACION IMPORTANTE ACERCA DEL PLOMO EN SU AGUA POTABLE
        [Insert name of your water system] ha encontrado altos niveles de plomo en el agua potable de
        algunos domicilios y edificios en su comunidad. El plomo puede causar serios problemas a la salud,
        especialmente a las mujeres encintas y a los ninos de 6 afios o menores. Por favor lea el siguiente aviso
        [insert link to Public Education Notice] detenidamente y aprenda que puede hacer para reducir el
        plomo en su agua potable y que hace [Insert name of your water system] para resolver este problema.

        Llamenos a [insert your water system phone number] para mas informacion - Fecha [Insert the date
        posted]

        [Provide your system's General Public Education Notice here or link to it within your Web site.]
     'Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://VAvw.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
48

-------
                                                      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                     A Guide for Community Water Systems


 Public Service Announcement Template
 The latest revisions to the LCR do not require water systems to produce Public Service Announcements.
 However, Public Service Announcements are one of the additional activities that large and small water
 systems can produce to meet the additional PE requirements (see Table 3). Although you should include the
 following information, which is consistent with the PE requirements under the 2007 short-term revisions
 and clarifications to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), the media outlets may opt to not include all of the
 information.

 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT LEAD IN YOUR DRINKING WATER
 [Insert name of water system] found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/buildings in our
 community. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and children 6 years and
younger.

 Lead is a common metal found in the environment. Drinking water is one possible source of lead exposure.
 The main sources of lead exposure are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust or soil.

 The following are some of the steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead in your water including:

 +  Run your water for 15-30 seconds to flush  out lead.  [Or insert a different  flushing time if your
   system has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better  reduce lead exposure in
   your community and if the Primacy Agency approves the wording]
 >  Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula.
 *•  Do not boil water to remove lead.

 Call [insert name of your water system] at [insert number] (ifapplicable) or visit our Web site at [insert Web site
 Here] to find out how to get your water tested for lead or for more information. For more information on reducing
 lead exposure around your home/building and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/lead
 or contact your health care provider.

This notice is  brought to you by [insert the name of your water system]. State Water System ID# [insert
your water system's  ID number] Date [Insert the date distributed]
Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html

                                                                                                   49

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Public Service Announcement Template (Spanish)
      The latest revisions to the LCR do not require water systems to produce Public Service Announcements.
      However, Public Service Announcements are one of the additional activities that large and small water
      systems can produce to meet the additional PE requirements (see Table 3). Although you should include the
      following information, which is consistent with the PE requirements under the 2007 short-term revisions
      and clarifications to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), the media outlets may opt to not include all of the
      information.

      INFORMACION IMPORTANTE ACERCA DEL PLOMO EN SU AGUA POTABLE
      [Insert name of your water system] ha encontrado altos niveles de plomo en el agua potable de algunos domicilios y
      edificios en su comunidad. El plomo puede causar serios problemas a la salud, espedalmente a las mujeres encintas
      y a los ninos de 6 anos o menores.

      El plomo es un metal comiin que se encuentra en el medio ambiente. El agua potable es una posible fuente
      de exposicion al plomo. Las fuentes principales de la exposicion al plomo radican en la pintura que contiene
      plomo, la tierra o el polvo contaminado con plomo y ciertos materiales de fontaneria.

      A continuacion siguen unos cuantos pasos para ayudarle a reducir su exposicion al plomo en el agua,
      inclusive:
      >• Deje correr el agua para 15-30 segundos para eliminar el plomo. [Or insert a different flushing
        time if your system  has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead
        exposure in your community and if the Primacy Agency approves the wording.]
      > Utilice agua fri'a para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes.
      > No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo.

      Llame a [insert name of your water system] marcando el [insert number] (si aplica) o visite nuestro sitio Internet
      en [insert Web site Here] para aprender como pedir un andlisis de plomo en su agua o para mas informacion.  Para
      mas informacion sobre la reduccion de la exposicion al plomo en su hogar/edificio y los efectos del plomo, visite el
      sitio Internet de EPA en www.epa.gov/lead opongase en contacto con su proveedor de atencion medica.

      Esta notification le ha sido entregada por [insertar el nombre de su sistema de aguas]. Niimero de
      identification del sistema de aguas del estado [insert your water system's ID number] Fecha [Insert the date
      distributed]
50

-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems


 Press Release  Template
 The revisions to the LCR PE require systems to provide two press releases per year during a lead action
 level exceedance. For small systems, the Primacy Agency can waive this requirement if the system provides
 a notice to each household. The following template contains information that is consistent with the LCR
 requirements.  Providing local information, quotes from a local water system and/or public health official,
 and information about actions your system is taking to address the exceedance can help the media to
 accurately convey information about the exceedance and your system's action steps. Please note, media
 outlets may choose not to include all of the information that you provide in your Press Release.

 PRESS RELEASE DRINKING WATER NOTICE
 IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT LEAD IN [INSERT NAME  OF YOUR COMMUNITY]
 DRINKING WATER
 Recent drinking water quality monitoring conducted by [insert name of water system/community] has found
 elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/buildings in [insert name of community or area served
 by your water system].  Although the primary sources of lead exposure are lead-based paint and  lead-
 contaminated dust or soil, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 10 to 20 percent of a
 person's potential exposure to lead may come from drinking water.

 [Insert name of community] is concerned about the health of their residents because lead can cause serious
 health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources, especially for pregnant women
 and children 6 years and younger. It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the
production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your body. Scientists have linked the effects of lead on
 the brain with lowered IQ in children. Adults with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by
 low levels of lead more than healthy adults. Lead is stored in the bones and it can be released later in life. During
pregnancy, the child receives lead from the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.

 [Insert information about what happened and what is being done? You may wish to include information
 about the exceedance and the history of lead levels in tap water samples in your community. For example,
 have they declined substantially over time? Have they been low and risen recently? Is there  a known reason
 for any lead level changes? Explain the steps being taken to reduce lead levels, such as corrosion control
 treatment and/or lead service line replacement.]

 There are steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead in your water:
 »>  Run your water to flush out lead. Run water for 15-30 seconds  to flush lead from interior plumbing or
   until it becomes cold or reaches a steady temperature before using it for drinking or cooking, if it hasn't
   been used for several hours. [It is likely that systems with lead service lines will need to collect data to
   determine the appropriate flushing time for lead service lines.]1
 +•  Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula.
 *•  Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will not reduce lead.
 >•  Look for alternative drinking water sources or treatment of water. You may want to consider
   purchasing bottled water or a water filter.
 *•  Test your water for lead. Call us at  [insert phone number for your water system] to find out how to get
   your water tested for lead.
 'The bracketed language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials. It is designed to alert systems that, where applicable,
 lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
 'Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
                                                                                                       51

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems


       * Get your child's blood tested. Contact your local health department or healthcare provider to find out
         how you can get your child tested for lead if you are concerned about exposure.
       > Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead.

       There are several actions that [insert name of water system of community] are taking to address this lead in
       drinking water concern.  [Insert a quote from a water system official letting the public know what actions
       the system is taking to address the lead action level exceedance or insert a list of action steps.]


       Call [insert name of your water system] at [insert number] (ifapplicable) or visit [insert name of your water
       system ] Web site at [insert Web site Here] to find out how to get your water tested for lead or for more information
       on steps [insert name of your water system] is taking to address the lead action level exceedance. For more
       information on reducing lead exposure around your home/building and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web
       site at www.epa.gov/lead or contact your health care provider.


       [We recommend you include the name of your system and the date that the information is being distributed,
       along with the state water system ID, somewhere on the notice.]
52

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems


 Press Release Template (Spanish)
 The revisions to the LCR PE require systems to provide two press releases per year during a lead action
 level exceedance.  For small systems, the Primacy Agency can waive this requirement if the system provides
 a notice to each household. The following template contains information that is consistent with the
 LCR requirements. Providing local information, quotes, from a local water system and/or public health
 official, and information about actions your system is taking to address the exceedance can help the media
 to accurately convey information about the exceedance and your system's action steps.  Please note, media
 outlets may choose not to include all of the information that you provide in your Press Release.

 COMUNICADO DE PRENSA PARA EL AVISO SOBRE EL AGUA POTABLE
 INFORMACION IMPORT ANTE SOBRE EL PLOMO EN EL AGUA POTABLE DE  [INSERT
 NAME OF YOUR COMMUNITY]
 El monitoreo reciente de la calidad del agua potable realizado por [insert name of water system/community]
 ha encontrado altos niveles de plomo en el agua potable de algunos hogares/edificios de [insert name of
 community or area served by your water system]. Aunque las fuentes principales de exposicion al plomo radican
 en la pintura con  plomo o en la tierra o el polvo contaminados con plomo, la Agencia de Proteccion del
 Medio Ambiente  (Environmental Protection Agency, o EPA por sus siglas en ingles)  de los Estados Unidos
 calcula que de 10  a 20 por ciento de la posible exposicion  al  plomo de una persona puede provenir del agua
 potable.

 La salud de sus residentes es de gran  importancia para [Insert name of community] debido a que el plomo
puede causar serios problemas de salud si su cuerpo recibe demasiado plomo proveniente del agua potable u
 otras fuentes, especialmente en el caso de las mujeres encintasy de los ninos de 6 anos o menores. Puede danar al
 cerebro y a los rinones e interferir en la produccion de globulos rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las panes
 de su cuerpo. Los cientificos ban conectado los efectos del plomo en el cerebro con coeficientes de inteligencia mas
 reducidos en  los ninos. Niveles bajos de plomo tienen un mayor  efecto en los adultos con problemas de rinony de
 alta presion sanguinea que en los adultos sanos. El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas
 tarde en la vida. Durante el embarazo, el bebe recibe plomo proveniente de los huesos maternos lo cualpuede
 afectar el desarrollo de su cerebro.

 [Insert information about what happened and what is being done? You may wish to include information
 about the exceedance and the history of lead levels in tap water samples in your comrnunity. For example,
 have they declined substantially over time? Have they been low and risen recently? Is there a known reason
 for any lead  level changes?] Explain the steps being taken to  reduce lead levels, such as corrosion control
 treatment and/or lead service line replacement.]

 Existen pasos que usted puede seguir para reducir su exposicion al plomo en el agua:
 >  Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30  segundos, si no se ha
   utilizado  en varias horas, para eliminar el plomo de la fontanen'a interior o  hasta que se enfrie o alcance
   una temperatura constante antes de  utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar. [It is likely that systems with lead
   service  lines will need to collect data to determine the appropriate flushing time for lead service lines.]'
 >  Utilice agua fria para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes.
 >  No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo. El agua hervida no reduce el plomo.
'The bracketed language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials. It is designed to alert systems that, where applicable,
lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
"Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
                                                                                                      53

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      *  Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua. Usted puede comprar agua en botellas o un filtro de
         agua.
      >  Pida que se analice su agua para saber si tiene plomo. Llamenos al [insert phone number for your
         water system] para saber como obtener un analisis del plomo en su agua.
      >•  Pida un analisis de la sangre de sus hijos. Pongase en contacto con el departamento de salud de su zona
         o con su proveedor de atencion medica para saber como puede obtener un analisis de sangre de su hijo si
         es que le preocupa una posible exposicion.
      >  Identifique y reemplace el equipo de fontaneria que contenga plomo.
      Existen varias medidas que [insert name of water system of community] ha emprendido para resolver este
      tema del plomo en el agua potable. [Insert a quote from a water system official letting the public know what
      actions the system is taking to address the lead action level exceedance or insert a list of action steps.]

      Llame a [insert name of your water system] marcando el [insert number] (si aplica) o visite elsitio Internet de
      [insert name of your water system ] en [insert Web site Here] para aprender como puede pedir un analisis del plomo
      en su agua o para mas informacion sobre los pasos que emprende [insert name of your water system] para resolver
      la excedencia del nivel de accion para el plomo. Para mas informacion sobre la reduccion de la exposicion al
      plomo en su hogar/edificio y los efectos del plomo, visite el sitio Internet de EPA en www.epa.gov/leado
      pongase en contacto con su proveedor de atencion medica.

      [We recommend you include the name of your system and the date  that the information is being distributed
      along with  the state water system ID, somewhere on the notice.]
54

-------
                                                  Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                A Guide for Community Water Systems


Water Bill  Language/Insert Template

The following paragraph includes language that meets the LCR PE requirements and must be included in
water bill notification in the event of a lead action level exceedance; however, you should consult with the
Primacy Agency because the rule allows the Primacy Agency to allow alternate message content and delivery
mechanisms.  Please note, the following statement may be placed directly on the water bill itself or included
as an insert.
         IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT LEAD IN YOUR DRINKING WATER

  [Insert name of your water system] found high levels of lead in drinking water in some homes. Lead can cause
  serious health problems. For more information, please call [insert name and phone number of water system]
  or visit [insertyour Web site].
Water Bill  Language/Insert Template (Spanish)

The following paragraph includes language that meets the LCR PE requirements and must be included in
water bill notification in the event of a lead action level exceedance; however, you should consult with the
Primacy Agency because the rule allows the Primacy Agency to allow alternate message content and delivery
mechanisms. Please note, the following statement may be placed directly on the water bill itself or included
as an insert.
      INFORMACION IMPORTANTE ACERCA DEL PLOMO EN SU AGUA POTABLE

  [Insert name of your water system] ha encontrado altos niveles de plomo en el agua potable de algunos hogares.
  Elplomo puede tenergraves consecuencias para la salud. Para mas informacion, porfavor llame a [insert
  name and phone number of water system] 6 visite [insert your Web site].
                                                                                            55

-------
            Implementing The Lead Public  Education Provision of the LCR:
            A Guide for Community Water Systems
            Public  Education   Brochure
                4. Look for alternative sources or treatment
                of  water. You  may wanl  to  ^	  -  	
                consider purchasing bottled water
                or a water filter. Read the package
                to be sure the filter is approved to
                reduce  lead  or contact  NSF
                International at 800-NSF-8010 or
                'iiv<*.«x!.(tr<; for information on
                performance standards  for water
                filters. Be sure to maintain and
                replace  a   filter   device  in
                accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
                to protect water quality.

                5. Test your water for lead. Call us at [insert
                phone number for your water system] to find out
                how to get your water  tested for lead, [include
                information  on your  water
                system's testing program. For
                example, do you provide free
                testing? Are there labs  in your
                area that are certified to do lead
                in water testing?]

                6. Get your child's blood tested. Contact your
                local health department  or healthcare provider to
                find out how you can get your child tested for
                lead, if you are concerned about exposure

                7.  Identify and  replace plumbing  fixtures
                containing lead. New brass faucets, fittings.
                and valves, including those advertised as "lead-
                free,"  may contribute lead to drinking  water.
                The law currently allows end-use brass fixtures,
                such as faucets, with  up to 8% lead to be labeled
                as "lead-free-"
           WHAT HAPPENED?
         WHAT IS BEING DONE?

  [Insert information about bow and when the
  eiceedance  was   discovered   in   your
  community and provide information on the
  sources) of lead in  the  drinking water, if
  known.)
 [Insert information about what your system
 is doing to reduce lead levels in homes in your
 [Insert information about lead service lines in
 your community, how a consumer can find
' out of they have a lead service line, what your
 water system is doing to replace lead service
 lines, etc.[
[Insert information about the history of lead
levels  in   tap  water  samples  in  your
community. For example, have they declined
substantially over time? Have they been low
and risen recently? Is there a known reason
for any lead level changes?)
       FOR MORE INFORMATION
Call us at [Insert Number] (if applicable)  or
visit our Web site at [insert Web site Here]. For
more information  on  reducing lead exposure
around your home/building  and  the health
effects  of lead,  visit EPA's Web  site  at
M '*~v.t'Fu.go\"/riK/, or contact your health care
provider.

[We recommend you include the name of your
system and the date that the information is being
distributed, along with the state water system
ID, somewhere on the notice.]
                                                         Lead
                                                             in
                                                Dr  in   kin  g
                                                     Water
                 The   United   Stales   Knvironmcntal
                 Protection Agency  (EPA) and  [insert
                 name  of water  supplier  here] are
                 concerned about lead in your drinking
                 water.  Although most homes have very
                 low levels of lead in their drinking water,
                 some homes in the community have lead
                 levels above the EPA action level of 15
                 parts  per billion  (ppb),  or   0.015
                 milligrams of lead per liter of water
                 (mg/L).   Under Federal  law we are
                 required  to have a program in place to
                 minimize lead in your drinking water by
                 {insert date when corrosion control will
                 be completed for your system].

                 This program includes:
                 1. Corrosion control treatment (treating
                 the water to make it less likely that lead
                 will dissolve into the water);
                 2. Source water treatment (removing any
                 lead that is in the water at the  time  it
                 leaves our treatment facility); and
                 3. A public education program.

                 We  are  also  required to replace the
                 portion of each lead service line that we
                 own  if  the  line  contributes lead
                 concentrations of more than 15 ppb after
                 we  have completed  the comprehensive
                 treatment  program.   If you  have any
                 questions about how we are carrying out
                 the  requirements of the lead regulation
                 please  give us a call at  [insert water
                 system's phone number here].

                 This brochure  also  explains the  simple
                 steps you can  take  to protect yourself by
                 reducing  your  exposure  to  lead  in
                 drinking water.
Important InfHrmJliun abvtil l.rari in Your
Drinking Water
{Insert name of water system] found elevated
levels of lead in drinking water in some
homes/buildings. Lead can cause serious health
problems, especially for pregnant women and
young children. Please read this information
closely to see what you can do to reduce lead in
your drinking water.         	
                                                                                                        r  shoes),
                                                                                                                Lead is found  in sonic toys, so
                                                                                                                                some childrc
      HEALTH EFFECTS OF LEAD

Lead can cause serious health problems if too
much enters your body from drinking water or
other sources. It can cause damage to the brain
and  kidneys,  and can  interfere with  the
production of red blood cells that carry oxygen
to all parts of vour body. The greatest risk of
lead exposure is to infants, young children, and
pregnant women.  Scientists  have  linked  the
effects of lead on the brain with lowered IQ in
children. Adults with kidney problems and high
blood pressure can be affected by low levels of
lead more than healthy adults. Lead is stored in
the bones and it can be released later in life.
During pregnancy, the child receives lead from
the mother's  bones,  which  may affect  brain
development.

          SOURCES OF LEAD

Lead  is a common  metal  found  in  the
environment. Drinking water  is  one possible
source of lead exposure. The main sources of
lead exposure  are lead-based  paint and lead-
contaminated dust or soil, and some plumbing
materials. In  addition,  lead can  be found in
certain types of pottery, pewter, brass fixtures,
food,  and  cosmetics.  Other sources include
exposure in the work place and exposure from
certain hobbies (lead can be carried on clothing
playground cquipmci
metal jewelry.

Brass  faucets,  fittings, and valves,  including
those advertised as "lead-free," may contribute
lead to drinking water. The law currently allows
end-use brass fixtures, such as faucets, with up
to 8 percent lead to be labeled as "lead-free."

[C'WS  -  Insert  utility  specific  information
describing your community's source water - e.g.
'The source of water from  XX Reservoir does
not contain lead" or "Community X does not
have any lead in its source water or water mains
in the street."]  When water is in contact with
pipes   [or service   lines],  and   plumbing
containing lead for several hours, the lead may
enter drinking water. Homes built before 1988
are more likely  to have lead pipes or lead solder.

EPA  estimates  that  10  to 20 percent of a
person's potential exposure to lead may come
from  drinking  water. Infants who  consume
mostly  formula  mixed  with  lead-containing
water  can receive 40 to 60  percent of their
exposure to lead from drinking water.

Don't forget about other sources of lead such as
lead paint, lead dust, and lead in soil. Wash your
children's  hands  and toys  often as  they can
come into  contact with dirt  and dust containing
lead.
                                              STKPS YOU CAN TAKK TO HEDUCK
                                             YOUR EXPOSURE TO LKAD IN YOUR
                                                           WATER

                                                           I. Run your water to flush
                                                           out lead. Run water for 15-
                                                           30 seconds to flush lead from
                                                      -    interior plumbing [or insert a
                                                        ft  different  flushing  time   if
                                                           your      system      has
                                                        data  indicating  a   different
                                                        tuld better reduce lead exposure
                                                        nity  and if the State Primacy
                                           Agency  approves  the- wording]  or until  ii
                                           becomes cold  or reaches a  steady temperature
                                           before using it for drinking or cooking, if  it
                                           hasn't been used for several hours. [It is likely
                                           that systems with lead service lines will need to
                                           collect  data  to  determine the appropriate
                                           flushing time for lead service lines.]1
                                           2. 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. Do not use water
                                           from the hot water tap to make
                                           baby formula.
                                           3. Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling
                                           water will not reduce lead.
            'The bracketed language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials. It is designed to alert systems  that, where applicable,
            lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
            'Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
56

-------
                                                                                                     Implementing The Lead Public Education  Provision of the LCR:
                                                                                                                                  A Guide for Community Water Systems
 Public   Education   Brochure   (Spanish)
   los filtros de agua. Asegurese de mantener y de
   reemplazar el dispositivo filirame conionne a las
   instrucciones del tabricante para proteger la
   calidad del agua.

   5. Pida que se analke su  agua para saber si
   tienc plomo. Llamenos al (insert phone number
   for your waler system] para saber como obtener un
   analisis del  plomo en su agua
   [Include  information on your
   water system's testing program.
   For  example, do you provide
   free testing? Are there  labs in
   your area that are certified  to do lead in waler
   testing?)

   6. Pida un  analisis de la sangre de sus hijos.
   Pongase en contacto con el departamento dc salud
   de su zona o con  su proveedor de atencion medica
   para saber como puede obtener un analisis de
   sangre de su hijo si es que le  preocupa una posibte
   7.  Identifique  y reetnplace el equipo de
   funtaneria que contenga plomo. Los grifos, los
   accesorios y las valvulas dc laton, inclusive las que
   se anuncian estar "sin plomo", pueden contribuir
   al plomo en el agua potable. En la actualidad la ley
   permite que los accesorios de uso  final de Iat6n,
   tales como los grifos, cuyo tenor puede tener hasta
   8 por  ciento de plomo. puedan etiquelarse "sin
   plomo". Visile  el sitio Internet en w\v»v.i!.s!.or^
   para aprender  mas acerca de los equipos dc
   fontaneria que conlienen plomo.

        iQUE PASO? iQUE SE ESTA
                HACIENDO?

   (Insert infurmatiun ahoul how and when
   the exceedance was discovered in your
   community and provide information on the
   source(s) of lead in the drinking water, in
   known.]
 (insert information about what your system
 is doing to reduce lead levels in homes in
 community.]
 (Insert information about lead service lines
 in your community, how a consumer can
 find out if they have a lead service line,
 what your water system is doing to replace
 lead service lines, etc.]
 (Insert information about the history of lead
 levels  in  lap   water  samples  in  your
 community.  For example, have they declined
 substantially over time?  Have they been low
 and risen recently? Is there a known reason
 for any lead level changes?)
       PARA MAS INFORM AC l6N
 Llamenos al (Insert Number] (if applicable) 6
 visile nueslro sitio Internet [insert Web site Here].
 Para mas information sobre la reduction de la
 exposition al plomo en su hogar/edifitio v los
 ejecios del plomo, visile el sitio Iniernei de EPA en
 \vw,y.ep3.}J ov/lead a pongase en contacto con su
 proveedor de atencion medica

 [We recommend you include the name of your
 system and the date that the information is being
 distributed, along with the water system  ID,
 somewhere on the notice.]
     Plomo   en
        el  Agua
        Potable
     LI plomo en su agua potable es un Icnin
     important para la Agenda de Protection del
     Medio Ambiente (Tinvironmental Protection
     Agency, o FPA por sus siglas en ingles) y
     [insert nami-of water supplier hcre|. Aunque
     el nivel de plomo es muy bajo en cl agua potable
     dc la mayoria dc hogares, algunos domicilios en
     la comunidad lienen niveles de plomo que
     exceden el nivel de ace ion de EPA de 15 paries
     por mil millones (ppb). es decir 0,015
     miligramos dc plomo por litro de agua (mg/L).
     En virtud de la Icy federal, dcbcmos
     implementar un programa que minimicc el
     plomo en su agua potable antes de [insert date
     when corrosion control will be completed for
     your system].

     Esle programa incluye:

       1.  un tratamtento de control de la corrosion
         (el agua tratada evita mejor que el plomo
         se dtsuelva en el agua);
      2.   el tratarniento del agua de origen
         (eliminacion del plomo en el agua cuando
         sale de nuestra instalacion de
         tratamiento); y
      3.   un programa de educacion publics

     Tambien debemos reemplazar la parte de cada
     liaea de servicio de plomo de la que somos
     propietarios cuando dicha Imea contribuye
     coDcentraciones de plomo que exceden 15 pbb
     tras realizar el programa de tratamiento integral.
     Si tiene cualquier pregunta sobre nuestra forma
     de cumplir con los requisitos del reglamento
     sobre el plomo no dude en llamarnos al [insert
     water system's phone number here].

     Este folleto tambien ex plica pasos senciilos que
     listed puede emprender para protegerse al
     reducir la exposicion al plomo en el agua
     potable.
 1M ORVUCION IMPORTANT?. ACKKCA
 IMC!, JM.OMO KN SU M;V\ I'OI \\Kl.V.
 (Insert name o/ water xrslwnj ha eniontrado
 altos nivrli-s de /iliintu en t'l ti^uu potable de
 alfiuiiox domicilios v ecti/ici».\ El plomo puede
 ctiustir st'i'iux problemus u In .wind.
 especialuientc a las mujvrea cncintas v u los
 ninox peqiwnos. Si' mega lea csin informal.'ion
 aientamente para ver que puede hacer para
 reducir i'l plomo en su tiguu potable
  EFECTOS DEL PLOMO EN LA SALUD

El plomo puede causar serum problemax  de
salud si cantidades excesivM proveniences del
agua potable, u .otras fuentes. se inlroducen en
su cuerpo. Puede danar al cere'bro y a los
rinones e interferir en la produccion de globulos
rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las panes

al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de ba}a
edad y las mu/eres encintas  Los cientificos han
conectado los efectos del plomo en el cerebro
con coeficientes de  inteligencia mas reducidos
en los ninos. Niveles bajos de plomo tienen  un
mayor efecto  en los  adultos con problemas  de

adultos sanos. El plomo  se almacena en los
huesos y puede ser dispersado mas tarde en la
vida. Durante  el embarazo. el  be be red be
plomo proveniente de los huesos  maternos  lo
cual puede afeciar el desarrollo de su cerebro.

         FUENTES DEL PLOMO
El plomo es un metal comiin qui
el medio ambiente. El agua potable es una posible
fuente de exposicion al plomo. Las fuentes
pnncipales de exposicion al plomo radican en la
pintura con plomo, la tierra o el polvo
contaminado con plomo y cierlos materials de
Los grifos, los accesorios y las valvulas de laton,
inclusive las que se anuncian estar "sin plomo",
pueden contribuir al plomo en el agua potable. En
la actualidatl la ley permite que los accesorios de
uso final de laton, tales como los grifos. cuyo tenor
puede tener hasta 8 por ciento de plomo, puedan
etiquelarsc "sin plomo".

[Insert utility specific information describing your
community's source water - e.g. "The source of
water from XX Reservoir does not contain lead"
or "Community X does not have any lead in its
source water or water mains in the street."]
Cuando el agua entra en contacto con tuberias [o
lineas de servicio] o con fontaneria que contiene
plomo y durante v arias horas, el plomo puede
introducirsc en el agua potable. Las casas
construidas antes de 1988 suelen lener tuberias de
plomo o soldaduras de plomo.

La EPA calcula que de 10 a 20 por ciento de la
exposicion posible de una persona al plomo puede
provenir del agua potable. Los infantes que
consumer mayonnente formula para bebes
mezclada con agua que contiene plomo pueden
ingerir con el agua potable hasta enlre 40 y 60 por
ciento de su exposicion al plomo.

No se olvide que existen otras fuenies de plomo
tales como la pintura con conlenido de plomo, el
polvo de plomo y el plomo en la lierra. Lave las
manos de sus hijos y los juguetes a menudo ya que
pueden entrar en contacto con el polvo y la
suciedad que con lien en plomo.
     MEDIDAS QUE USTED PUEDE
    EMPRENOER PARA REDUCIR SU
  EXPOSICION AL PLOMO EN EL AGUA

1. Dcji1 cnrrcr tl agua para eliminar el pin mo.
         Deje  correr el  agua  unos  15  a  311
 v'.K,    segundos,  si  no se ha uuli/ado  en
 /  «.     vanas horas, para eliminiir el plomo de
         la  fonianeria  interior  (or  insert  a
                different flushing time if your
                  *tem   has  representative
                data indicating  a  different
                flushing  lime would better
                reduce lead exposure in your
                community and  if  the  State
Primacy Agency approves  the wording] o  hastu
que se en trie o alcanc'e una temperatura constanle
anies de utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar (I' *s
likely that systems with lead service lines wilt
need to collect data to determine the appropriate
flushing time for lead service lines.]1

2.  Utilice  agua   fria  para
cocinar y  para preparar  la
formula para bebes.  No cocme
ni beba agua del grifo de  agua
caliente ya  que  el  plomo  se
disuelve mas facilmente en agua
caliente. No utilice el grifo  de
agua caliente para preparar la formula para bebes.

3. Nn hierva el  agua para eliminar plnmo  El
agua hervida no reduce el plomo.

4. Busque otras fuentes o formas de  tratar el
agua. Usted puede comprar  agua
en bolellas o un filtro de  agua. Lea
el embalaje para cerciorarse de que
el filtro esta aprobado para reducir
el plomo, o pongase en contacto con
NSF International,  marcando  el
800-NSF-8010     6     visile
^ i  Tibi i ig para mas informacion
sobre las normas de rendimiento de
'The bracketed language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials. It is designed to alert systems that, where applicable,
lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
"Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
                                                                                                                                                                                           57

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
       Public Education  Poster

H Important Information about Lead in Your Drinking Water I
[Insert name of water system] found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/buildings. Lead can cause serious j
health problems, especially for pregnant
reduce lead in your drinking water.
Lead can cause serious health problems if
too much enters your body from drinking
water or other sources. It can cause
damage to the brain and kidneys, and can
interfere with the production of red blood
cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your
body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is
to infants, young children, and pregnant
women. Scientists have linked the effects of
lead on the brain with lowered IQ in
children. Adults with kidney problems and
high blood pressure can be affected by low
levels of lead more than healthy adults.
Lead is stored in the bones and it can be
released later in life. During pregnancy,
the child receives lead from the mother 's
bones. which may affect brain
development.

^H Sources of Lead 1
•• •
Lead is a common metal found in the
environment. Drinking water is one
possible source of lead exposure. The main
sources of lead exposure are lead-based
paint and lead-contaminated dust or soil.
and some plumbing materials. In addition.
lead can be found in certain types of
pottery, pewter, brass fixtures, food, and
cosmetics. Other sources include exposure
in the work place and exposure from
certain hobbies (lead can be carried on
clothing or shoes). Lead is lound in some
toys, some playground equipment, and
some children's metal jewelry.


Brass faucets, fittings, and valves.
including those advertised as "lead-free,"
may contribute lead to drinking water. The
law currently allows end-use brass fixtures,
such as faucets, with up to 8 percent lead to
be labeled as "lead-free."

[CWS-lnsert utility specific information
describing your community's source water
- e.g. "The source of water from XX
Reservoir does not contain lead" or
"Community X does not have any lead in
its source water or water mains in the
street."] When water is in contact with
pipes [or service lines], and plumbing
containing lead for several hours, the lead
may enter drinking water. Homes built
before 1988 are more likely to have lead
pipes or lead solder.
EPA estimates that 10 to 20 percent of a
person's potential exposure to lead may
come from drinking water. Infants who
consume mostly formula mixed with lead-
containing water can receive 40 to 60
percent of their exposure to lead from
drinking water. Don't forget about other
sources of lead such as lead paint, lead
dust, and lead in soil. Wash your children's
hands and toys often as they can come into
contact with dirt and dust containing lead.
vomen and young children. Please read this in.

jBiiiaiaiiflii^
1. Run your water to flush out lead. Run
water for 15-30 seconds to
OlL flush lead from interior
FW'V*"' plumbing [or insert a
\:;>x^ different flushing time if
h
^ ""ft i rt - d t
jLffiW*Tu' A' t" d'tr
ffsE*~yyfo fi H H id
i^P^^^^ & ms me ° *
ff^ffrr * better reduce lead
"^ exposure in your
community and if the State Primacy
Agency approves the wording] or until it
temperature before using it for drinking or
cooking, if it hasn't been used for several
hours. [It is likely that systems with lead
service lines will need to collect data to
determine the appropriate flushing time for
lead service lines.]1
2. Use cold water for cooking and
preparing baby formula. Do not cook
with or drink water from the hoi water tap;
lead dissolves more easily into hot water.
Do not use water from the hot water tap to




4. Look for alternative sources or
treatment of walcr. You may want to
consider purchasing bottled water or a
water filler Read the package to be sure
the filter it. approved to reduce lead or
contact NSK International at SOO-NSF-

performance standards for water fillers. Be
sure to maintain and replace a filter device
in accordance with the manufacturer's

ins rue ions to protect water quality.

5. Test your water for lead. Call us at
( insert phone number for your water
system] to find out how to get
your water tested for lead. 1 1
[Include information on your \ u \
water system's testing li-nun/""" \
program. For example, do you '""'v^-)
provide free testing? Are there
labs in your area that are certified to do
lead in water testing?]
6. Get your child's blood tested. Contact
your local health department or healthcare
provider to find out how you can get your
child tested for lead, if you are concerned


7. Identify and replace plumbing fixtures
containing lead. Brass faucets, fittings.
and valves, including those advertised as
"lead- free," may contribute lead to
drinking water. The law currently allows
end-use brass fixtures, such as faucets, with
up to 8% lead to be labeled as "lead-free."
ormation closely to see what you can do to \

••••

[Insert information about how and when
the exceedance was discovered in your
community and provide information on the
sources) of lead in the drinking water, if
known.]




[Insert information about what your system
is doing to reduce lead levels in homes in
your community.]



[Insert information about lead service lines

find out of they have a lead service line,
what your water system is doing to replace
lead service lines, etc.]




[Insert information about the history of
lead levels in tap water samples in your
community. For example, have they
declined substantially over time? Have they
been low and risen recently? Is there a
known reason for any lead level changes?)







• For More Information ^^H
•^•fl
Call us at f Insert Number] (if applicable)
or visit our Web site at {insert Web site
Here}. For more information on reducing
lead exposure around your home/building
and the health effects of lead, visit EPA 's
Web site at ww.fpt!.gi'V'lii&d, or contact
your health care provider.
[We recommend you include the name of
your system and the date that the
information is being distributed, along with
the state water system ID, somewhere on
the notice.]





       'The bracketed, language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials. It is designed to alert systems that, where applicable,
       lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
       "Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
58

-------
                                                                                                     Implementing The Lead Public Education  Provision of the LCR:
                                                                                                                                   A Guide for Community Water Systems
 Public   Education  Poster  (Spanish)
                                            INFORMACION IMPORT A NTE ACE RCA DEL
                                                         PLOMO EN SU AGUA  POTABLE
                               	•^^•^••••^•^•^••^^••••^^••^••^•••^••^•l^a^a^aMH
                                [Insert name of water system] ha encontrado altos niveles de plomo en el agua potable de algunos domicilios y edificios. El
                                plomo puede causar serios problemas a la salud, especialmente a las mujeres encintas y a los n/rtos pequenos. Por favor
                                lea esta information atentamente para ver que puede hacer para reducir el plomo en su agua potable
                             El plomo puede causar serios problemos de
                             salud si cantidades excesivas provenienies
                             del agua potable, u otras fiiente.t. se
                             inlroducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al
                             cerebro y a los nnones y tambien puede
                             inierferir en la produccion de globulos rojns
                             que transportan oxigeno a todas las paries de
                             su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de exposicion
                             al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de
                             baja edady las mujere.s encintas. Los
                             cientificos han coneciado los efectos del

                             tnieligertcia mas reditcidot, en to* nima,

                             efeclo en los adultos con probiemas dc rifmn

                             adullos sanas. El plomo se almaceixi en io\
                             huesos y puede .vtT dispersado mu.\ tardf i-is
                             la vida. Duranit- cl emburazo, el hchc n-cih.-

                             cual pucdf afcctar rl det>arnilli> dc su
                             ct-rt-bro.
                                      I'ueolo del plomo
lil plomo es un metal coiniin que so cm-uenira
en el medio amliiente. HI agua potable es una
posihle fuenle de exposicion al plomo. I .as
fuentes principales de exposicion al plomo
radical! en la pintura con plomo. la I terra n cl
polvo conlaminado con  plomo y cicrtos
maleriales dc fontaneria Ademas. cl plomo
puede enconlrarse en cierlos lipos tic
ceramic^, pelire. accesonos dc lalon.
ulimenlos y de produclos cosmeticos. {)tras
fuentes de exposicion incluyen el lugar dc
Irabajo y la expasicion asociada con cicrlns
pasaliempos (es posible Iransportar plomo en
la ropa o los zapatos). HI plomo se hall a en
algunos jugueies, equipos de parques
infanlilcs y en ciertas joyas metahcas para
ninos.

Los grifos, los accesorios y las valvulas ik-
lalon, inclusive las que se anuncian estai "sin
plomo," pueden conlribuir al plomo en el
agua potable. En la aclualidad la ley permilc
que  los accesorios de uso final de laton.  tales
como los grifos, cuyo tenor puede lener hasta
K por ciento de plomo, puedan etiquetarse
•'sin plomo."

[Insert utility specific information describing
your community's source water - e.g. "The
source of water from XX Reservoir does not
contain lead" or "Community X does not
have any lead in its source  waier or w aler
mains in the street."] Cuando el agua enlra en
conlaclo con tuberias (o lineas de servicio] o
con  fontaneria que contiene plomo y duranle
varias horas, el plomo puede mtroduurse en
el agua potable. Las casas constniidas anles
de 1988 suelen lener tuberias de plomo o
soldaduras de plomo.

La EPA calcula que de 10 a 20 por cienlo de
la exposicion posible de una persona al plomo
puede proventr del agua potable. Los infantes
                                       que consumer! mayormente formula para
                                       bebes mezclada con agua que conliene plomo
                                       pueden ingerir con el agua potable hasta entre
                                       40 y 60 por cienlo de su exposicion al plomo.

                                       No se olvide que existen otras fuentes de
                                       plomo tales como la pintura con contenido de
                                       plomo, el polvo de plomo y el plomo en la
                                       tierra Lave las manos de sus hijos y los
                                       juguetes a menudo ya que pueden entrar en
                                       contacto con el polvo y la suciedad que
                                       coniienen plomo.
                                            Medhlasque nslc reduce el plomo.

4. Bu*que olras fuentes o for mas de Iratar
el auua Usted puede comprar agua en
hitiL'Hus o un tiltro de agua. Lea el embalaje
para ccrcior.irse de que el filtro esta aprobado
para rt.uliii.ir el plomo. o piingase en contaclo
con NSh Imcmational, marcando el 800-

inloniiaciun sobre las normas de rendimienlo
de IDS liliros dt agua. Asegurese de mantener
y  de reemplazur el dispositivo filtrante
conlonne a las instruct I ones del fabricante
para prtrteger la cahdad del agua.

*•. Pida que w analice su
agua para saber si dene
plomo Llamenos al [insert
phone number tor your water
system 1 para saber como
obiener un analisis del plomo en su agua.
[Include information on your water system's
testing program for example, do you provide
free testing? Are there labs in. your area thai
are certified to do lead in water testing?]
6. Pida un analisis de la sangre de sus hijos.
Pongase en contacto con el departamento de
salud de su zona o gon su proveedor de
atencion medica para saber como puede
obtener un analisis de sangre de su hijo si es
que le preocupa una posible exposicion.

7. Identifique y reemplace el equipo de
fontaneria que contenga plomo. Los grifos,
los accesorios y las valvulas de laton,
inclusive las que se anuncian eslar "sin
plomo", pueden conlribuir al plomo en el
agua potable En la actual idad la ley permite
que los accesorios de uso final de laton, tales
como los grifos, cuyo tenor puede tener hasta
8 por ciento de plomo, puedan etiquetarse
"sin plomo". Visile el sitio Internet en
w-vv w _nsl_^rg para aprender mas acerca de los
equipos de fontaneria que connenen njomo.
                                                                              [Insert intbnnalion about how and when
                                                                              the exeecdance was discovered in your
                                                                              community and provide information on the
                                                                              sotirce(s) of lead in the drinking water, in
                                                                                                           | Insert information about what your system
                                                                                                           is doing to reduce lead levels in homes m
                                                                                                           [Insert information about lead service lines
                                                                                                           in your community, how a consumer can .
                                                                                                           find out if they have a lead service line.
                                                                                                           whal your water system is doing to replace
                                                                                                           lead service lines, etc.]
                                                                                                           [Insert information about the history of
                                                                                                           lead levels in tap water samples in your
                                                                                                           community. For example, have they
                                                                                                           declined substantially over time? Have
                                                                                                           they been low and risen recently?  Is there
                                                                                                           a known reason for any lead level
                                                                                                           changes?]
                                                                                                                 Para urns infortnmcMn
                                                                                                           Llamenos al [Insert Number] (if applicable)
                                                                                                           6 visile miestro silio Internet [insert Web
                                                                                                           site Here], Para max injormacion sobre la
                                                                                                           reduction de la exposicion al plomo en su
                                                                                                           hogar'edi/icio y los ejectos dei plomo.
                                                                                                           visile el sitio Internet de EPA en
                                                                                                           \r\\T,.epn gfn','!c:ad o pongase en contacto
                                                                                                           con su proveedor de atencion medica.
'The bracketed language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials.  It is designed to alert systems that, where applicable,
lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
'Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at:  http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html
                                                                                                                                                                                            59

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer  Notice  of Tap Water  Results Template  for

      Community Water Systems
      [Information in  italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Dear (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name of your water system]  appreciates your participation in the lead tap monitoring program. A
      lead level of [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the value is in pbb]
      was reported for the sample collected on [date] at your location, [insert address of customer].

      1. Your result, as well as the 90th percentile value for our water system, is below the lead action level of 15
      parts per billion.

      What Does This Mean?
      Under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the U.S.  Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
      set the action level for lead in drinking water at 15 ppb.  This  means utilities must ensure that water from
      the customer's tap does not exceed this level in at least 90 percent of the homes sampled (90th percentile
      value). The action level is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other
      requirements which a water system must follow.  If water from the tap does exceed this limit, then the utility
      must take certain steps to correct the problem. Because lead may pose serious health risks, the EPA set a
      Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) of zero for lead. The MCLG is the level of a contaminant in
      drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.

      What Are The Health Effects of Lead?
      Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources.
      It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the  production of red blood cells that
      carry oxygen to all parts of your body.  The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and
      pregnant women. Scientists have linked the effects of lead on  the brain with lowered IQin children.  Adults
      with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy
      adults. Lead is stored  in the bones, and it can be released later  in life. During pregnancy, the child receives
      lead from the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.

      What Are The Sources of Lead?
      The primary sources of lead exposure for most children are deteriorating lead-based paint, lead-
      contaminated dust, and lead-contaminated residential soil.  Lead is found is some toys, some playground
      equipment, some children's metal jewelry, and some traditional pottery. Exposure to lead is a significant
      health concern, especially for young children and infants whose growing bodies tend to absorb more lead
      than the average adult. Although your home's drinking water  lead levels  were below the action level, if you
      are concerned about lead exposure, parents should ask their health care providers about testing children for
      high levels of lead in the blood.
      'Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html

60

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

What Can I Do To Reduce Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water?
Although your test results were below EPA's action level, you may still want to take steps to further reduce
your exposure.
^  Run your water to flush out lead. If water hasn't been used for several hours, run water for 15-30
   seconds to flush lead from interior plumbing [or insert a different flushing time if your system has
   representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead exposure  in your
   community and if the State approves the wording] or until it becomes cold or reaches a steady
   temperature before using it for drinking or cooking.
*  Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula.
*•  Do not boil water to remove lead.
>•  Look for alternative sources or treatment of water (such as bottled water or water filters).
*•  Re-test your water for lead periodically.
>  Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead.

For More Information
Call us at [insert your water system's phone number]. For more information on reducing lead exposure
around your home and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/lead, call the National
Lead Information  Center at 800-424-LEAD, or contact your health care provider.
                                                                                                     61

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer  Notice  of Tap Water  Results Template for
      Community Water  Systems
      [Information in  italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Dear (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name of your water system]  appreciates your participation in the lead tap monitoring program. A lead
      level of [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the value is in pbb] was
      reported for the sample collected on [date] at your location, [insert address of customer].

      2. Your result was below the lead action level of 15 parts per billion. However, the 90th percentile value for
      our system was above the lead action level.

      What Does This Mean?
      Under the  authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the U.S.  Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set
      the action level for lead in drinking water at 15 ppb. This means utilities must ensure that water from the
      customer's  tap does not exceed this  level in at least 90 percent  of the homes sampled (90th percentile value).
      The action level is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements
      which a water system must follow.  If water from the tap does exceed this limit, then the utility must take
      certain steps to correct the problem. Because lead may pose serious health risks, the EPA set a Maximum
      Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) of zero for lead.  The MCLG is the level of a contaminant in drinking
      water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin  of safety.

      We are taking a number of steps to correct the problem. We will begin sampling for lead every 6 months so
      we can closely monitor the lead levels in our water system. Your continued participation and support in our
      lead tap monitoring program is very important.  In addition, we will initiate a Public Education campaign
      to ensure our customers know about the action level exceedance, understand the health  effects of lead, the
      sources of lead and actions they can take to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water. We will also monitor
      our source  water, initiate controls to reduce the corrosivity of our water (corrosive water can cause lead to
      leach from  plumbing materials that contain lead) and initiate lead service line replacement [for those systems
      with lead service lines].

      What Are The Health Effects of Lead?
      Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources.
      It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the production of red blood cells that
      carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and
      pregnant women. Scientists have linked the effects of lead on  the brain with lowered IQin children.  Adults
      with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults.
      Lead is stored in the bones, and it can be released later in life.  During pregnancy, the child receives lead
      from the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.
      What Are The Sources of Lead?
      The primary sources of lead exposure for most children are deteriorating lead-based paint, lead-contaminated
      dust, and lead-contaminated residential soil. Exposure to lead is a significant health concern, especially for
62

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

young children and infants whose growing bodies tend to absorb more lead than the average adult. Lead
is found in some toys, some playground equipment, some children's metal jewelry, and some traditional
pottery. Although your home's drinking water lead levels were below the action level, if you are concerned
about lead exposure, parents should ask their health care providers about testing children for high levels of
lead in the blood. Lead is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing
materials. Homes built before 1988 are more likely to have lead pipes or lead solder.

What Can I Do To Reduce Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water?
Although your test results were below EPA's action level, you may still want to take steps to further reduce
your exposure.
>•  Run your water to flush out lead.  Run water for 15-30 seconds to flush lead from interior plumbing
   [or insert a  different flushing time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing
   time would better reduce lead  exposure in your community and if the State approves the wording] or
   until it becomes cold or reaches a steady temperature before using it for drinking or cooking, if it hasn't
   been used for several hours.
»•  Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula.
>  Do not boil water to remove lead.
>  Look for alternative sources or treatment of water (such as bottled water or water filters).
>•  Re-test your water for lead periodically.
*  Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead.

For More Information
Call us at [insert your water system's phone number]. For more information on reducing lead exposure
around your home and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/lead, call the National
Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD, or contact your health care provider.
                                                                                                      63

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results Template for

      Community Water Systems
      [Information in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Dear (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name of your water system] appreciates your participation in the lead tap monitoring program. A
      lead level of [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the value is in pbb]
      was reported for  the sample collected on [date] at your location,  [insert address of customer].

      3. Your result is greater than the lead action level of 15 parts per billion. However, the 90th percentile value
      for our water system was below the lead action level.

      What Does This Mean?
      Under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set
      the action level for lead in drinking water at 15 ppb. This means utilities must ensure that water from the
      customer's tap does not exceed this level in at least 90 percent of the homes sampled (90th percentile value).
      The action level is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements
      which a water system must follow.  If water from the tap does exceed  this limit, then the utility must take
      certain steps to correct the problem. Because lead may pose serious  health risks, the EPA set a Maximum
      Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) of zero  for lead.  The MCLG is  the level of a contaminant in drinking
      water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.

      Your lead level may be due to conditions unique to your home, such as the presence of lead soldier or brass
      faucets, fittings and valves that may contain lead. Our system works to keep the corrosivity of our water as
      low as possible (corrosive water can cause lead to leach from plumbing materials that contain lead) and there
      are actions you can take to reduce exposure.  We strongly urge you to take the steps below to reduce your
      exposure to lead in drinking water.

      What Are The Health Effects of Lead?
      Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources.
      It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the production of red blood cells that
      carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and
      pregnant women. Scientists have linked the effects of lead on the brain with lowered IQin children. Adults
      with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults.
      Lead is stored in  the bones, and it can be released later in life. During pregnancy, the child receives lead
      from the mother's bones, which may affect brain development. If you are concerned about lead exposure,
      you may want to ask your health care provider about testing children to determine levels of lead in their
      blood.

      What Are The Sources of Lead?
      Although most lead exposure occurs when people eat paint chips and inhale dust, or from contaminated
      soil, EPA estimates that 10 to 20 percent of human exposure to lead may come from lead in drinking water.
      Lead is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Homes
      built before 1988 are more likely to have lead pipes or lead solder. However, new homes are also at risk:
64

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

even legally "lead-free" plumbing may contain up to 8 percent lead. The most common problem is with
brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures which can leach significant amounts of lead into the water,
especially hot water.

What Can I Do To Reduce Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water?

>  Run your water to flush out lead. If water hasn't been used for several hours, run water for 15-30
   seconds to flush lead from interior plumbing [or insert a different flushing time if your system has
   representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead exposure in your
   community and if the State approves the wording] or until it becomes cold or reaches a steady
   temperature before using it 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.  Do not use water from the hot water tap to make
   baby formula.
>  Do not boil water to remove lead.  Boiling water will not reduce lead.
>•  Look for alternative sources or treatment of water. You may want to consider purchasing bottled
   water or a water filter. Read the package to be sure the filter is approved to reduce lead.
*  Re-test your water for lead periodically.  Call us at [insert phone number  for your water system]  to find
   out how to get your water tested for lead.  [Include information on your water system's testing program.
   For example, do you provide free testing?  Are there labs in your area that are certified to do lead in water
   testing?]
*  Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead.  Brass faucets, fittings, and valves, including
   those advertised as "lead-free," may contribute lead to drinking water.  The law currently allows end-
   use brass fixtures, such as faucets, with up  to 8% lead to be labeled as "lead free." The law also requires
   faucets and other end-use fixtures to be independently certified against NSF/ANSI Standard 61. Products
   that comply will  be marked directly on the product or its packaging.

For More Information
Call us at [insert your water system's phone number]. For more information on reducing lead exposure
around your home and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/lead, call the National
Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD,  or contact your health care provider.
                                                                                                      65

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results Template  for
      Community Water Systems
      [Information in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Dear (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name of your water system] appreciates your participation in the lead tap monitoring program. A
      lead level of [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the value  is in pbb]
      was reported for the sample collected on [date] at your location, [insert address of customer].

      4. Your result is greater than the lead action level and the 90th percentile value for our water system is also
      greater than the lead action level of 15 parts per billion.

      What Does This Mean?
      Under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency  (EPA set
      the action  level for lead in drinking water at 15 ppb. This means utilities must ensure that water  from the
      customer's tap does not exceed this level in at least 90 percent of the homes sampled (90th percentile result).
      The action level is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements
      which a water system must follow. If water from the tap does exceed this limit, then the utility must take
      certain steps to correct the problem. Because lead may pose serious health risks, the EPA set a Maximum
      Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) of zero for lead.  The MCLG is the level of a contaminant in drinking
      water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.

      We are taking a number of steps to correct the problem. We will begin sampling for lead every 6 months so
      we can closely monitor the lead levels in our water system.  Your continued participation and support in our
      lead tap monitoring program is very important.  In addition, we will initiate a Public Education campaign
      to ensure our customers know about the action level exceedance, understand the health effects of lead, the
      sources of lead and actions they can take to reduce exposure to leads in drinking water. We will also monitor
      our source water,  initiate controls to reduce the corrosivity of our water (corrosive water can cause lead to
      leach from plumbing materials that contain lead) and initiate lead service line replacement [for those systems
      with lead service lines].

      Although we are taking action to reduce lead levels, your elevated lead level may also be due to conditions
      unique to your home, such as the presence of lead soldier or brass faucets, fittings and valves that may
      contain lead. Our system works to keep the corrosivity of our water as low as possible (corrosive  water can
      cause lead to leach from plumbing materials that contain lead) and there are actions you can take to reduce
      exposure. We strongly urge you to take the steps below to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water.

      What Are The Health  Effects of Lead?
      Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources.
      It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the production of red blood cells that
      carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and
      pregnant women.  Scientists have linked the effects of lead on the brain with lowered IQ in children.  Adults
      with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults.
      Lead is stored in the bones,  and it can be released later in life. During pregnancy, the child receives lead
66

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

from the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.  If you are concerned about lead exposure,
you may want to ask your health care provider about testing children to determine levels of lead in their
blood.

What Are The Sources of Lead?
Although most lead exposure occurs when people eat paint chips and inhale dust, or from contaminated
soil, EPA estimates that 10 to 20 percent of human exposure to lead may come from lead in drinking water.
Lead is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Homes
built before 1988 are more likely to have lead pipes or lead solder. However, new homes are also at risk:
even legally "lead-free" plumbing may contain up to 8 percent lead. The most common problem is with
brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures which can leach significant amounts of lead into the water,
especially hot water.

What Can I Do To Reduce Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water?

>•  Run your water to flush out lead.  If water hasn't been used for several hours, run water for 15-30
   seconds to flush lead from interior plumbing [or insert a different flushing rime if your system has
   representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead exposure in your
   community and if the State approves the wording] or until it becomes cold or reaches a steady
   temperature before using it 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.  Do not use water from the hot water tap to make
   baby formula.
>  Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will not reduce lead.
>  Look for alternative sources or treatment of water. You may want  to consider purchasing bottled
   water or a water filter.  Read the  package to be sure the filter  is approved to reduce lead.
+  Re-test you water for lead periodically.  Call us at [insert phone number for your water system] to find
   out how to get your water tested for lead. [Include information  on your water system's testing program.
   For example, do you provide free testing? Are there labs in your area that are certified to do lead in water
   testing?]
*  Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead. Brass faucets, fittings, and valves, including
   those advertised as "lead-free," may contribute lead to drinking water. The law currently allows end-
   use brass fixtures, such as faucets, with up to 8% lead to be labeled as  "lead free." The law also requires
   faucets and other end-use fixtures to be independently certified against NSF/ANSI Standard 61. Products
   that comply will be marked directly on  the product or its packaging.

For More Information
Call us at [insert your water system's phone number]. For more information on reducing lead exposure
around your home and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/lead, call the National
Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD, or contact your health care provider.
                                                                                                      67

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer Notice of  Tap  Water Results Template for
      Community  Water Systems
      [Information in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Dear (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name or your water system] appreciates your participation in the lead tap monitoring program. A lead
      level of [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected - make sure the value is in ppb] was
      reported for the sample collected on [date] at your location, [insert address of customer].

      5. Your result was below the lead action level of 15 parts per billion. Our water system, however, has not
      yet calculated the 90th percentile value for our system, so we do not yet know if our system is above the lead
      action level.

      What Does This Mean?
      Under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set
      the action level for lead in drinking water at 15 parts per billion (ppb).  This means utilities must ensure
      that water from the customer's tap does not exceed this level in at least 90 percent of homes sampled (90th
      percentile value).  The action level is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment
      or other requirements which a water system must follow.  If water from the tap does exceed this limit, then the
      utility must take certain steps to correct the problem. Because lead may pose serious health risks, the EPA set
      a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) of zero for lead. The MCLG is the level of a contaminant in
      drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a  margin of safety.

      We are in the process of determining the 90th percentile value for our water system. You  can call us at [insert
      water system phone number] after [insert date that your 90th percentile calculation information will be
      available] to find out our system's 90th percentile value.  If our 90th percentile value is found to be below the
      lead action level for lead no additional actions will be taken and we will continue our regular lead in drinking
      water monitoring program.

      If our 90th percentile value is found to be in exceedance of the action level for lead, there  are a number of
      steps that we will  take to correct the problem. We will begin sampling for lead every 6 months so that we can
      closely monitor the lead levels in our water system. Your continued participation and support in our lead tap
      monitoring program is very important. In addition, we will initiate a Public Education campaign to ensure
      all of our customers know about the action level exceedance, understand the health effects of lead, the sources
      of lead, and actions  they can take to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water.  We will also monitor our
      source water, initiate controls to reduce the corrosivity of our water (corrosive water can cause lead to leach
      from plumbing materials that contain lead), and initiate lead service line replacement [for those systems with
      lead service lines].

      What Are The Health Effects of Lead?
      Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources.
      It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the production of red blood cells that
      carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and
      pregnant women. Scientists have link the effects  of lead on the brain with lowered IQ in children. Adults
68

-------
                                                        Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems

with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults.
Lead is stored in the bones, and it can be released later in life.  During pregnancy, the child receives lead from
the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.

What Are The Sources of Lead?
The primary sources of lead exposure for most children are deteriorating lead-based paint, lead-contaminated
dust, and lead-contaminated residential soil. Exposure to lead is a significant health concern, especially for
young children and infants whose growing bodies  tend to absorb more lead than the average adult. Although
your home's drinking water levels were below the action level, if you are concerned about lead exposure,
parents should ask their health care providers about testing children for high levels of lead in the blood. Lead
is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Homes built
before 1988 are more likely to have lead pipes or lead solder.

What Can I Do To Reduce Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water?
Although your test results were below EPA's action level, you may still want to take steps to further reduce
your exposure.
* Run your water to flush out lead. Run water for 15 to 30 seconds to flush lead from interior plumbing
   [or insert a different flushing time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing
   time would better reduce lead exposure in your community and if the State Primacy Agency approves the
   wording] or until it becomes cold or reaches a steady temperature before using it for drinking or cooking,
   if it hasn't been used for several hours.
> Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula.
K Do not boil water to remove lead.
> Look for alternative sources or treatment of water (such as bottled water or water filters).
> Re-test you water for lead periodically.
* Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead.

For More Information
Call us at [insert your water system's phone number]. For more information on reducing lead exposure
around your home and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/lead, call the National
Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD, or contact your health care provider.
'Customizable versions of these templates are available for download at: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html

                                                                                                        69

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer Notice of  Tap Water Results Template for
      Community  Water Systems
      [Information in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Dear (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name or your water system] appreciates your participation in the lead tap monitoring program. A lead
      level of [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected - make sure the value is in ppb] was
      reported for the sample collected on [date] at your location, [insert address of customer].

      6. Your result is greater than the lead action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). Our water system, however,
      has not yet calculated the 90th percentile value for our system, so we do not yet know if our system is above
      the lead action level.

      What Does This Mean?
      Under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set
      the action  level for lead in drinking water at 15  parts per billion (ppb). This means utilities must ensure
      that water  from the customer's tap does not exceed this level in at least 90 percent of homes sampled (90th
      percentile value).  The action level is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment
      or other requirements which a water system must follow.  If water from the tap does exceed this limit, then the
      utility must take certain steps to correct the problem.  Because lead may pose serious health risks, the EPA set
      a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) of zero for lead. The MCLG is the level of a contaminant in
      drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.

      We are in the process of determining the 90th percentile value for our water system. You can call us at [insert
      water system phone number] after [insert date that your 90th percentile calculation information will be
      available] to find out our system's 90th percentile value. If our 90th percentile value is found to be below the
      lead action level for lead no additional actions will be  taken and we will continue our regular lead in drinking
      water monitoring program.

      If our 90th percentile value is found to be in exceedance of the action level for lead, there are a number of
      steps that we will  take to correct the problem. We will begin sampling for lead every 6 months so that we can
      closely monitor the lead levels in our water system. Your continued participation and  support in our lead tap
      monitoring program is very important. In addition, we will initiate a Public Education campaign to ensure
      all of our customers know about the action level exceedance, understand the  health effects of lead, the sources
      of lead, and actions they can take to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water.  We will also monitor our
      source water, initiate controls to reduce the corrosivity of our water (corrosive water can cause lead to leach
      from plumbing materials that contain lead), and initiate lead service line replacement  [for those systems with
      lead service lines].

      Your lead level may be due to conditions unique to your home, such as the presence of lead solder or brass
      faucets, fittings, and valves that may contain lead. Our system works to  keep the corrosivity of our water as
      low as possible (corrosive water can cause lead to leach from plumbing materials that contain lead) and there
      are actions you can take to reduce exposure.  We strongly urge you to take the steps below to reduce your
      exposure to lead in drinking water.
70

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems

What Are The Health Effects of Lead?
Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water or other sources.
It can cause damage to  the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the production of red blood cells that
carry oxygen to all parts of your body.  The greatest risk of lead exposure is to infants, young children, and
pregnant women.  Scientists have link the effects of lead on the brain with lowered IQ in children.  Adults
with kidney problems and high blood  pressure can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults.
Lead is stored in the bones, and it can  be released later in life. During pregnancy, the child receives lead from
the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.  If you are concerned about lead exposure, you may
want to ask your health care provider about testing children to determine  level of lead in their blood.

What Are The Sources of Lead?
The primary sources of lead exposure for most children are deteriorating lead-based paint, lead-contaminated
dust, and lead-contaminated residential soil.  Exposure to lead is a significant health concern, especially for
young children and infants whose growing bodies tend to absorb more lead than the average adult.  Although
your home's drinking water levels were below the action level, if you are concerned about lead exposure,
parents should ask their health care providers about testing children for high levels of lead in the blood. Lead
is rarely found in source water, but enters tap water through corrosion of plumbing materials. Homes built
before 1988 are more likely to have lead pipes or lead solder.

What Can I Do To Reduce Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water?

* Run your water to flush out lead. Run water for 15 to 30 seconds to  flush lead from interior plumbing
   [or insert a different flushing time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing
   time would better reduce lead exposure in your community and if the State Primacy Agency approves the
   wording] or until it becomes cold or reaches a steady temperature before using it for drinking or cooking,
   if it hasn't been  used for several hours.
>• Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula. Do not cool with or drink water from the
   hot water tap; lead dissolves easily into hot water. Do not use water from the hot water tap to make baby
   formula.
> Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will not reduce lead.
> Look for alternative sources or treatment of water. You may want to consider purchasing bottled water
   or a water filter. Read the package to be sure the filter is approved to reduce lead.
* Re-test you water for lead periodically. Call us at [insert phone number for your water system] to find
   out how and when to re-test your water for lead. [Include information on your water system's testing
   program. For example, do you provide free testing?  Are there labs in your  area that are certified to do
   lead in water testing?]
* Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead.  Brass faucets, fittings, and valves, including
   those advertised as "lead-free," may contribute to lead in drinking water. The law currently allows end-
   use brass fixtures, such as faucets, with up to 8 percent lead to be labeled as "lead-free." The law also
   requires faucets  and other end-use fixtures to be independently certified against NSF/ANSI Standard 61.
   Products that comply will be marked directly on the product or its packaging.

For More Information
Call us at  [insert your water system's phone number]. For more information on reducing lead exposure
around your home and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's "Web site at www.epa.gov/lead,  call the National
Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD, or contact your health care provider.
                                                                                                       71

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results Template for
      Community Water Systems (Spanish)
      [Information in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Estimado/a (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name of your water system] agradece su participation en el programa de mpnitoreo de plomo en el
      agua de grifo. Un nivel de [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the
      value is in pbb] ha resultado de la muestra obtenida el [date] , en la ubicacion de [insert address of customer] .

      1 . Su resultado, asi como el valor de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema de aguas, se halla bajo el nivel de accion
      de plomo de 1 5 partes por mil millones, es decir 1 5 ppb.

      ^Que significa este resultado?
      Bajo la autoridad de la Ley de Agua Potable Segura, la Agencia de Protection del Medio Ambiente
      (Environmental Protection Agency, o EPA por sus siglas en ingles) de los Estados Unidos establecio a 1 5 ppb
      el nivel de accion para el plomo en el agua potable. Esto significa que los servicios piiblicos deben asegurarse
      que el agua de grifo de sus clientes no exceda dicho nivel en el 90 por ciento de hogares analizados (valor
      de percentil 90). El nivel de accion significa una concentration de contaminante que una  vez excedida provoca
      el tratamiento u otros requisitos que debe acatar un sistema de aguas. Si el agua de grifo excede dicho li'mite,
      el servicio publico debe entonces emprender ciertas medidas para corregir el problema.  Debido a que el
      plomo puede conllevar serios riesgos para la salud, la EPA ha establecido un Objetivo de Nivel Maximo
      de Contaminante (MCLG por sus siglas en ingles) de cero para el plomo. El MCLG es  el nivel de un
      contaminante en el agua potable cuyo valor menor no presenta ningun riesgo conocido o previsto para la salud. Los
      niveles MCLG ofrecen un margen de seguridad.
             afecta el plomo a la salud?
      El plomo puede causar serios problemas de salud si cantidades excesivas provenientes del agua potable, u
      otras fuentes, se introducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al cerebro y a los rinones e interferir en la production
      de globulos rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las partes de su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de exposicion
      al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de baja edad y las mujeres encintas. Los cientfficos han conectado los
      efectos del  plomo en el cerebro con coeficientes de inteligencia mas reducidos en los ninos. Niveles bajos de
      plomo tienen un mayor efecto en los adultos con problemas de rinon y de alta presion sanguinea que en los
      adultos sanos. El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas tarde en la vida. Durante el
      embarazo, el bebe recibe plomo proveniente de los huesos maternos lo cual puede afectar el desarrollo de su
      cerebro.

      |Cuales son las fuentes del plomo?
      Las fuentes principales de la exposicion al plomo para la mayor/a de ninos radican en la pintura con plomo
      que se deteriora, la  tierra residencial y el polvo contaminados con plomo. El plomo se halla en algunos
      juguetes, equipos de parques infantiles, joyas metalicas de ninos y en algunas ceramicas tradicionales.  La
      exposicion  al plomo es de especial importancia para la salud, especialmente para los ninos de baja edad y
      para los infantes cuyos cuerpos crecientes tienen tendencia a absorber mayores cantidades de plomo que
      un adulto corriente. Aunque los niveles de plomo en el agua potable de su hogar se hallaron debajo del
      nivel de accion, si siente inquietud por la exposicion al plomo, se recomienda que los padres consulten a
72

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

sus proveedores de atencion medica acerca de un analisis de sangre para determinar cuales son los niveles de
plomo en los ninos.

jQue puedo hacer para reducir la exposicion al plomo en el agua de grifo?
*•  Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30 segundos, si no se ha
   utilizado en varias horas, para eliminar el plomo de la fontaneria interior [or insert a different flushing
   time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead
   exposure in your community and if the State approves the wording] o hasta que se enfrfe o alcance una
   temperatura constante antes de utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar.
*  Utilice agua fri'a para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes.
»•  No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo.
>•  Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua (agua en botellas o filtros de agua, entre otros).
»•  Analice periodicamente el plomo en su agua.
*  Identifique y reemplace el equipo de fontaneria que contenga plomo.

Para mas informacion
Llamenos al [insert your  water system's phone number]. Para mas informacion acerca de la reduccion de
exposicion al plomo en su hogar y los efectos del plomo en la salud puede visitar el sitio Internet en www.
epa.gov/lead, llamar al centre nacional de informacion sobre el plomo (National Lead Information Center)
marcando el 1 -800-424-LEAD (424-5323) 6 bien consultar a su proveedor de atencion medica.
                                                                                                     73

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems
      Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results Template for
      Community Water Systems (Spanish)
      [Information in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]
      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]
      Estimado/a (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name of your water system] agradece su participacion en el programa de monitoreo de plomo en el
      agua de grifo. Un nivel de [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the
      value is in pbb] ha resultado de la muestra obtenida el [date] , en la ubicacion de [insert address of customer] .

      2. Su resultado se halla debajo del nivel de accion para el plomo de 15 panes por mil millones (15 ppb). No
      obstante, el valor de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema se halla por encima del nivel de accion para el plomo.

      ^Que significa este resultado?
      Bajo la autoridad de la Ley de Agua Potable Segura, la Agencia de Proteccion del Medio Ambiente
      (Environmental Protection Agency, o EPA por sus siglas en ingles) de los Estados Unidos establecio a 1 5 ppb
      el nivel de accion para el plomo  en el agua potable. Esto significa que los servicios publicos deben asegurarse
      que el agua de grifo de sus clientes no exceda dicho nivel en el 90 por ciento de hogares analizados (valor
      de percentil 90).  El nivel de accion significa una concentration de contaminante que una vez excedida provoca
      el tratamiento u otros requisites que debe acatar un sistema de aguas. Si el agua de grifo excede dicho h'mite,
      el servicio piiblico debe entonces emprender ciertas medidas para corregir el problema. Debido a que el
      plomo puede conllevar series riesgos para la salud, la EPA ha establecido un Objetivo de Nivel Maximo
      de Contaminante (MCLG por sus siglas en ingles) de cero para el plomo. El MCLG es el nivel de un
      contaminante en el agua potable cuyo valor menor no presenta ningun riesgo conocido o previsto para la salud. Los
      niveles MCLG ofrecen un margen de seguridad.

      Hemos emprendido ciertas medidas para corregir este problema. Comenzaremos a tomar muestras cada 6
      meses con el fin de monitorear de cerca los niveles de plomo en nuestro sistema de aguas. Su participacion
      y apoyo continues en nuestro programa de supervision de agua de grifo es de gran importancia. Iniciaremos
      una campana de  Educacion Publica que permita cerciorarse de que nuestros clientes se hallan conscientes
      de la excedencia en el nivel de accion de plomo, comprenden como el plomo afecta la salud, conocen las
      fuentes de plomo y saben que acciones pueden emprender con el fin de reducir la exposicion al plomo en el
      agua potable. Tambien monitorearemos nuestra agua potable, estableceremos controles cuyo fin es reducir la
      corrosividad de nuestra agua (el  agua corrosiva puede disolver el plomo de los materiales que lo contengan) e
      iniciaremos el reemplazo de h'neas de servicio (para los sistemas cuyas h'neas de servicio son de plomo).
             afecta el plomo a la salud?
      El plomo puede causar serios problemas de salud si cantidades excesivas provenientes del agua potable, u
      otras fuentes, se introducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al cerebro y a los rinones e interferir en la produccion
      de globulos rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las partes de su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de exposicion
      al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de baja edad y las mujeres encintas. Los cientificos han conectado los
      efectos del  plomo en el cerebro con coeficientes de inteligencia mas reducidos en los ninos. Niveles bajos de
      plomo tienen un mayor efecto en los adultos con problemas de rinon y de alta presion sangufnea que en los
      adultos sanos. El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas tarde en la vida. Durante el
74

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

embarazo, el bebe recibe plomo provenience de los huesos maternos lo cual puede afectar el desarrollo de su
cerebro.

^Cuales son las fuentes del plomo?
Las fuentes principals de la exposicion al plomo para la mayoria de ninos radican en la pintura con plomo
que se deteriora, la tierra residencial y el polvo contaminados con plomo. La exposicion al plomo es de
especial importancia para la salud, especialmente para los ninos de baja edad y para los infantes cuyos
cuerpos crecientes tienen tendencia a absorber mayores cantidades de plomo que un adulto corriente. El
plomo se halla en algunos juguetes, equipos de parques infantiles, joyas metalicas de ninos y en algunas
ceramicas tradicionales. Aunque los niveles de plomo en el agua potable de su hogar se hallaron debajo del
nivel de accion, si siente inquietud por la exposicion al plomo, se recomienda que los padres consulten a
sus proveedores de  atencion medica acerca de un analisis de sangre para determinar cuales son los niveles
de plomo en los ninos. Raramente existe plomo en el agua de fuente, sino que se introduce  en el agua de
grifo debido a la corrosion de los materiales de fontanen'a. Las casas  construidas antes de 1988  suelen tener
tuberfas de plomo o soldaduras de plomo.

^Que puedo hacer para reducir la exposicion al plomo en el agua de grifo?
Aunque los resultados de su analisis se hallan debajo del nivel de accion establecido por la EPA, es posible
que usted desee emprender medidas que reduzcan su nivel de exposicion aiin mas.
*•  Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30  segundos, si no se ha
   utilizado en varias horas, para eliminar el plomo de la fontanen'a  interior [or insert a different flushing
   time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead
   exposure in your community and if the State approves  the wording] o hasta que se enfrie o alcance una
   temperatura constante antes de utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar.
>  Utilice agua fria para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes.
*  No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo.
*•  Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua (agua en botellas o filtros de agua, entre otros).
»•  Analice periodicamente el plomo en su agua.
»•  Identifique y reemplace el equipo de fontanen'a que contenga plomo.

Para mas informacion
Llamenos al [insert your water system's phone number]. Para mas informacion acerca de la reduccion de
exposicion al plomo en su hogar y los efectos del plomo en la salud puede visitar el sitio Internet en www.
epa.gov/lead, llamar al centra nacional de informacion sobre el plomo (National Lead Information Center)
marcando el 1 -800-424-LEAD (424-5323) 6 bien consultar a su proveedor de atencion medica.
                                                                                                      75

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:  "
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer  Notice  of Tap Water Results Template for

      Community Water Systems  (Spanish)
      [information in  italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Estimado/a (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name of your water system]  agradece su participation en el programa de monitoreo de plomo en el
      agua de grifo. Un nivel de [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the
      value is in pbb] ha resultado de la muestra obtenida el [date], en la ubicacion de [insert address of customer].

      3. Su resultado se halla por encima del nivel de accion para el plomo de 15 panes por mil millones (15 ppb).
      No obstante, el valor  de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema se halla debajo del nivel de accion para el plomo.

      ^Que significa este resultado?
      Bajo la autoridad de la Ley de Agua Potable Segura, la Agencia de Protection del Medio Ambiente
      (Environmental Protection Agency, o EPA por sus siglas en ingles) de los Estados Unidos establecio a 1 5 ppb
      el nivel de accion para el plomo en el agua potable. Esto significa que los servicios ptiblicos deben asegurarse
      que el agua de grifo de sus clientes no exceda dicho nivel en el 90 por ciento de hogares analizados (valor
      de percentil 90).  El nivel de accion  significa una concentration de contaminante que una vez excedida provoca
      el tratamiento u otros requisitos que debe acatar  un sistema de aguas. Si el agua de grifo excede dicho limite,
      el servicio piiblico debe entonces emprender ciertas medidas para corregir el problema. Debido a que el
      plomo puede conllevar serios riesgos para la salud, la EPA ha establecido un Objetivo de Nivel Maximo
      de Contaminante (MCLG por sus siglas en ingles) de cero para el plomo. El MCLG es el nivel de un
      contaminante en el agua potable cuyo valor menor no presenta ningun riesgo conocido o previsto para la salud. Los
      niveles MCLG ofrecen un margen de seguridad.

      Es posible que su nivel de plomo se deba a condiciones intrfnsecas a su hogar, tales como la existencia de
      soldaduras de plomo o de grifos, accesorios y valvulas de laton que pueden contener plomo. Nuestro sistema
      se esfuerza en reducir al maximo la corrosividad de nuestra agua (el agua corrosiva puede disolver el plomo
      de los materiales  que lo contengan) y usted puede emprender ciertas medidas para reducir la exposicion.

      Le aconsejamos seriamente de emprender las medidas a continuation para reducir su nivel de exposicion al
      plomo en el agua potable.
             afecta el plomo a la salud?
      El plomo puede causar serios problemas de salud si cantidades excesivas provenientes del agua potable, u
      otras fuentes, se introducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al cerebro y a los rinones e interferir en la production
      de globules rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las partes de su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de exposicion
      al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de baja edad y las mujeres encintas. Los cientificos han conectado los
      efectos del  plomo en el cerebro con coeficientes de inteligencia mas reducidos en los ninos. Niveles bajos de
      plomo tienen un mayor efecto en los adultos con problemas de rinon y de alta presion sangufnea que en los
      adultos sanos. El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas tarde en la vida. Durante el
      embarazo,  el bebe recibe plomo proveniente de los huesos maternos lo  cual puede afectar el desarrollo de su
      cerebro. Si  la exposicion al plomo le preocupa puede consultar con su proveedor de atencion medica acerca
      de un analisis de sangre de los ninos para determinar cuales son los niveles de plomo.
76

-------
                                                      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                      A Guide for Community Water Systems

^Cuales son las fuentes del plomo?
Aunque la mayor parte de exposicion al plomo ocurre cuando la gente ingiere escamas de pintura o aspira
polvo contaminado, la EPA considera que de 10 a 20 por ciento de la exposicion humana al plomo puede
deberse al plomo en el agua potable. Raramente existe plomo en el agua de fuente, sino que se introduce en
el agua de grifo debido a la corrosion de los materiales de fontaneria. Las casas construidas antes de 1988
suelen tener tuben'as de plomo o soldaduras de plomo. Sin embargo, las casas nuevas tambien presentan
riesgos: inclusive la fontaneria que legalmente se halla "sin plomo" pueden contener hasta 8 por ciento de
plomo. El problema mas corriente radica en los grifos y accesorios de laton o de laton cromado que pueden
disolver grandes cantidades de plomo en el agua, especialmente en agua caliente.

^Que puedo hacer para reducir la  exposicion al plomo en el agua de grifo?
* Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30 segundos, si no se ha
   utilizado en varias horas, para eliminar el plomo de la fontaneria interior [or insert a different flushing
   time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead
   exposure in your community and if the State approves the wording] o hasta que se enfrie o alcance una
   temperatura constante antes de utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar.
> Utilice agua fria para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes. No cocine ni beba agua del grifo
   de agua caliente ya que el plomo  se disuelve mas facilmente en agua caliente. No utilice el grifo de agua
   caliente para preparar la formula  para bebes.
> No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo. El agua hervida no reduce el plomo.
> Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua. Usted puede comprar agua en botellas o un filtro de
   agua. Lea el embalaje y cerciorese de que el filtro se halla aprobado para reducir plomo.
* Analice periodicamente el plomo en su agua. Llamenos al [insert phone number for your water system]
   para saber como obtener un  analisis del plomo en su agua. [Include information on your water system's
   testing program. For example,  do you provide free testing? Are there labs in your area that are certified to
   do lead in water testing?]
> Identifique y reemplace el equipo de fontaneria que contenga plomo. Los grifos, los accesorios y las
   valvulas de laton, inclusive las que se anuncian estar "sin plomo", pueden contribuir al plomo en el agua
   potable. En la actualidad la ley permite que los accesorios de uso final de laton, tales como los grifos, cuyo
   tenor puede tener hasta 8 por ciento de plomo, puedan etiquetarse "sin plomo". Esta ley tambien exige
   que los grifos y otros accesorios de uso final tengan una certificacion independiente que cumpla con la
   Norma 61 NSF/ANSI. Los productos conformes  se hallan marcados directamente en el producto mismo
   o en el embalaje.

Para mas informacion
Llamenos al [insert your water system's phone number].  Para mas informacion  acerca de la reduccion de
exposicion al plomo en su hogar y los efectos del plomo en la salud puede visitar el sitio Internet en www.
epa.gov/lead, llamar al centre nacional de informacion sobre el plomo (National Lead Information Center)
marcando el 1-800-424-LEAD  (424-5323) 6 bien consultar a su proveedor de  atencion medica.
                                                                                                     77

-------
Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
A Guide for Community Water Systems


Consumer  Notice  of Tap Water Results Template for

Community Water Systems  (Spanish)
[Information in  italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

[Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

Estimado/a (Consumer's Name),
[Insert name of your  water system]  agradece su participacion en el programa de monitoreo de plomo en el
agua de grifo. Un nivel de [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected-make sure the
value is in pbb] ha resultado de la muestra obtenida el [date], en la ubicacion de [insert address of customer].

4. Su resultado excede el nivel de accion para el plomo y el valor de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema de aguas
es tambien mayor-del nivel de accion para el plomo de  15 parte por mil millones (15 ppb).

jQue significa este resultado?
Bajo la autoridad de la Ley de Agua Potable Segura, la Agencia de Proteccion del Medio Ambiente
(Environmental Protection Agency, o EPA por sus siglas en ingles) de los Estados Unidos establecio a 15 ppb
el nivel de accion para el plomo en el agua potable. Esto significa que los servicios publicos deben asegurarse
que el agua de grifo de sus clientes no exceda dicho nivel en el 90 por ciento de hogares analizados  (resultado
de percentil 90). El nivel de accion  significa una concentration de contaminante que una vez excedida provoca
el tratamiento u otros requisites que debe acatar un sistema de aguas. Si el agua de grifo excede dicho limite,
el servicio piiblico debe entonces emprender ciertas medidas para corregir el problema. Debido a que el
plomo puede conllevar series riesgos para la salud, la EPA ha establecido un Objetivo de Nivel Maximo
de Contaminante (MCLG por sus siglas en ingles) de cero para el plomo. El MCLG es el nivel de un
contaminante en el agua potable cuyo valor menor no presenta ningun riesgo conocido o previsto para la salud. Los
niveles MCLG ofrecen un margen de seguridad.

Hemos emprendido ciertas medidas para corregir este problema.  Comenzaremos a tomar muestras cada 6
meses con el fin de monitorear de cerca los niveles de plomo en nuestro sistema de aguas. Su participacion
y apoyo continuos en nuestro programa de supervision de agua de grifo es de gran importancia. Iniciaremos
una campana de Educacion Piiblica que permita cerciorarse de que nuestros clientes se hallan conscientes  de
la excedencia en el nivel de accion, comprenden como el plomo afecta la salud, conocen las fuentes de plomo
y saben que acciones  pueden emprender con el fin de reducir la exposicion al plomo en el agua  potable.
Tambien monitorearemos nuestra agua potable, estableceremos controles cuyo fin es reducir la corrosividad
de nuestra agua (el agua corrosiva puede disolver el plomo de los materiales que lo contengan) e iniciaremos
el reemplazo de h'neas de servicio (para los sistemas cuyas lineas de servicio son de plomo).

Aunque hemos emprendido medidas para reducir los niveles de plomo, es posible que su nivel elevado de
plomo se deba a condiciones intrinsecas a su hogar, tales como la existencia de soldaduras de plomo o de
grifos, accesorios y valvulas de laton que pueden contener plomo. Nuestro sistema se esfuerza en reducir al
maximo la corrosividad de nuestra agua (el agua corrosiva puede  disolver el plomo de los materiales que lo
contengan) y usted puede emprender ciertas medidas para reducir la exposicion. Le aconsejamos seriamente
de emprender las medidas a continuacion para reducir su nivel de exposicion al plomo en el agua potable.

jComo afecta el plomo a la salud?
El plomo puede causar serios problemas de salud si cantidades excesivas provenientes del agua potable, u
otras fuentes, se introducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al cerebro y a los rinones e interferir en la produccion
de globules rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las partes de su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de exposicion

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems


al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de baja edad y las mujeres encintas. Los cientificos han conectado los
efectos del plomo en el cerebro con coeficienr.es de inteligencia mas reducidos en los ninos. Niveles bajos de
plomo tienen un mayor efecro en los adultos con problemas de rifion y de alta presion sanguinea que en los
adultos sanos. El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas rarde en la vida. Duranre el
embarazo, el bebe recibe plomo provenienre de los huesos marernos lo cual puede afecrar el desarrollo de su
cerebro. Si la exposicion al plomo le preocupa puede consultar con su proveedor de atencion medica acerca
de un analisis de sangre de los ninos para determinar cuales son los niveles de plomo.

^Cuales son las fuentes del plomo?
Aunque la mayor parte de exposicion al plomo ocurre cuando la genre ingiere escamas de pintura o aspira
polvo contaminado, la EPA considera que de 10 a 20 por ciento de la exposicion humana al plomo puede
deberse al plomo en el agua potable. Raramente existe plomo en el agua de fuente, sino que se introduce en
el agua de grifo debido a la corrosion de los materiales de fontaneria. Las casas construidas antes de 1988
suelen tener tuben'as de plomo  o soldaduras de plomo. Sin embargo, las casas nuevas tambien presentan
riesgos: inclusive la fontaneria que legalmente se halla "sin plomo" pueden contener hasta 8 por ciento de
plomo. El problema mas corriente radica en los grifos y accesorios de laton o de laton cromado que pueden
disolver grandes cantidades de plomo en el agua, especialmente en agua caliente.

jQue puedo hacer para reducir la exposicion al plomo en el agua de grifo?
> Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30 segundos, si no se ha
   utilizado en varias horas, para eliminar el plomo de la fontaneria interior [or insert a different flushing
   time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead
   exposure in your community and if the State approves the wording] o  hasta que se enfn'e o alcance una
   temperatura constante antes de utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar.
*• Utilice agua fria para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes. No cocine ni beba agua del  grifo
   de agua caliente ya que el plomo se disuelve mas facilmente en agua caliente. No utilice el grifo de agua
   caliente para preparar la formula para bebes.
> No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo. El agua hervida no reduce el plomo.
* Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua. Usted puede comprar agua en botellas o un filtro de
   agua. Lea el embalaje y cerciorese de que el filtro se halla aprobado para reducir plomo.
^ Analice periodicamente el plomo en su agua. Llamenos al [insert phone number for your water system]
   para saber como obtener un analisis del plomo en su agua. [Include information on your water system's
   testing program.  For example, do you provide free testing? Are there labs in your area that are certified to
   do lead in water testing?]
> Identifique y reemplace el equipo de fontaneria que contenga plomo. Los grifos, los accesorios y las
   valvulas de laton, inclusive las que se anuncian estar "sin plomo", pueden contribuir al plomo en el agua
   potable. En la actualidad la ley permite que los accesorios de uso final de laton,  tales como los grifos, cuyo
   tenor puede tener hasta 8 por ciento de plomo, puedan etiquetarse "sin plomo". Esta ley tambien exige
   que los grifos y otros accesorios de uso final tengan una certificacion independiente que cumpla con  la
   Norma 61 NSF/ANSI. Los productos conformes se hallan marcados directamente  en el producto mismo
   o en el embalaje.

Para mas informacion
Llamenos al  [insert your water system's phone number]. Para mas informacion acerca de la reduccion de
exposicion al plomo en su hogar y los efectos del plomo en la salud puede visitar el sitio Internet en www.
epa.gov/lead, llamar al centre nacional de informacion sobre el plomo (National Lead Information Center)
marcando el 1-800-424-LEAD (424-5323) 6 bien consultar a su proveedor de atencion medica.
                                                                                                      79

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer Notice of Tap Water Results Template for
      Community Water Systems (Spanish)
      [Information  in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Estimado/a (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name or your water system] agradece su participacion en el programa de monitoreo de plomo en el
      agua de grifo. Un  nivel de [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected - make sure the
      value is in ppb] ha resultado de la muestra obtenida el [date], en la ubicacion de [insert address of customer].

      5. Su resultado se halla debajo del nivel de accion para el plomo de 15 paries por mil millones (15 ppb).
      No obstante, nuestro sistema de aguas todavia no ha calculado el valor de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema y
      todavia no sabemos si nuestro sistema se halla  por encima del nivel de accion para el plomo.
           significa este resultado?
      Bajo a la autoridad de la Ley de Agua Potable Segura, la Agencia de Proteccion del Medio Ambiente
      (Environmental Protection Agency, o EPA por sus siglas en ingles) de los Estados Unidos establecio a
      1 5 partes por mil millones (ppb) el nivel de accion para el plomo en el agua potable. Esto significa que
      los servicios piiblicos deben asegurarse que el agua de grifo de sus clientes no exceda dicho nivel en el 90
      por ciento de hogares analizados (valor de percentil 90). El nivel de accion significa una concentration de
      contaminante que una vez excedida provoca el tratamiento u otros requisites que debe acatar un sistema de
      aguas.  Si el agua de grifo excede dicho limite, el servicio piiblico debe entonces emprender ciertas medidas
      para corregir el problema. Debido a que el plomo puede conllevar serios riesgos para la salud, la EPA ha
      establecido un Objetivo de Nivel Maximo de Contaminante (MCLG por sus siglas en ingles) de cero para el
      plomo. El MCLG es el nivel de un contaminante en el agua potable cuyo valor menor no presenta ningun riesgo
      conocido o previsto para la salud. Los niveles MCLG ofrecen un margen de seguridad.

      Estamos en proceso de determinar el valor de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema de aguas. Usted puede
      llamarnos al [insert water system phone number] despues de [insert date that your 90th percentile
      calculation information will be available] para conocer el valor percentil  90 de nuestro sistema. Si nuestro
      valor percentil 90 se halla debajo del nivel de accion para el plomo, no sera necesario emprender medidas
      suplementarias y seguiremos con nuestro programa regular de monitoreo del plomo en el agua potable.

      Si nuestro valor de percentil 90 se halla en excedencia del nivel de accion para el plomo existen ciertas
      medidas que emprenderemos para corregir este problema.  Comenzaremos a tomar muestras cada 6 meses
      con el fin de monitorear de cerca los niveles de plomo en nuestro sistema de aguas. Su participacion y apoyo
      continues en nuestro programa de supervision de agua de  grifo es de gran importancia. Iniciaremos una
      campana de Educacion Piiblica que permita cerciorarse de que todos nuestros clientes se hallan conscientes
      de la excedencia en el nivel de accion, comprenden como el plomo afecta la salud, conocen las fuentes de
      plomo y saben que acciones pueden emprender con  el fin de reducir la exposition al plomo en el agua
      potable. Tambien monitorearemos nuestra agua potable, estableceremos controles cuyo fin es reducir la
      corrosividad de nuestra agua (el agua corrosiva puede disolver el plomo de los materiales que lo contengan) e
      iniciaremos el reemplazo de h'neas de servicio [for those systems with lead service lines] .
80

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

        afecta el plomo a la salud?
El plomo puede causar series problemas de salud si cantidades excesivas provenientes del agua potable, u
otras fuentes, se introducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al cerebro y a los rinones e interferir en la produccion
de globulos rojos que transportan oxigeno a todas las partes de su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de exposicion
al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de baja edad y las mujeres encintas. Los cienti'ficos han conectado los
efectos del plomo en el cerebro con coeficientes de inteligencia mas reducidos en los ninos. Niveles bajos de
plomo tienen un mayor efecto en los adultos con problemas de rinon y de alta presion sangui'nea que en los
adultos sanos. El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas tarde en la vida. Durante el
embarazo, el bebe recibe plomo proveniente de los huesos maternos lo cual puede afectar el desarrollo de su
cerebro.

^Cuales son las fuentes del plomo?
Las fuentes principales de la exposicion al plomo para la mayoria de ninos radican en la pintura con plomo
que se deteriora, la tierra residencial y el polvo contaminados con plomo. La exposicion al  plomo es de
especial importancia para la salud, especialmente para los ninos de baja edad y para los infantes cuyos
cuerpos crecientes tienen tendencia a absorber mayores cantidades de plomo que un adulto corriente.
Aunque los niveles de  plomo en el agua potable de su hogar se hallaron debajo del nivel de accion, si
siente inquietud por la exposicion al plomo, se recomienda que los padres consulten a sus proveedores de
atencion medica acerca de un analisis de sangre para determinar cuales son los niveles de plomo en los
ninos. Raramente existe plomo en el agua de fuente, sino que se introduce en el  agua de grifo debido a la
corrosion de los materiales de fontanen'a. Las casas construidas antes de 1988 suelen tener tuberfas de plomo
o soldaduras de plomo.

jQue puedo hacer para reducir la exposicion al plomo en el agua de grifo?
Aunque los resultados  de su analisis se hallan debajo del nivel de accion establecido  por la EPA, es posible
que usted desee emprender medidas que reduzcan su nivel de exposicion aiin mas.
>  Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30 segundos, si no se ha
   utilizado agua en varias horas,  para eliminar el plomo de la fontanen'a interior [or insert a different
   flushing time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing time  would better
   reduce lead exposure in your community and if the State Primacy Agency approves the wording] o hasta
   que se enfrie o alcance una temperatura constante antes de utilizar el agua para beber o  cocinar.
>  Utilice agua fria para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes.
>  No hierva el agua  para eliminar plomo.
>  Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua (agua en botellas o filtros de agua, entre otros).
*•  Analice periodicamente el plomo en su agua.
>  Identifique y reemplace el equipo de fontanen'a que contenga plomo.

Para mas informacion
Llamenos al [insert your water system's phone number]. Para mas informacion acerca de la reduccion de
exposicion al plomo en su hogar y los efectos del plomo en la salud puede visitar el sitio Internet en www.
epa.gov/lead, llamar al centre nacional de informacion sobre el plomo (National Lead Information Center)
marcando el 1 -800-424-LEAD (424-5323) 6 bien consultar a su proveedor de atencion medica.
                                                                                                      81

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Consumer Notice of  Tap  Water Results Template for

      Community Water Systems (Spanish)
      [Information in italics is required/mandatory language and cannot be changed]

      [Select the appropriate number from the 6 possible options]

      Estimado/a (Consumer's Name),
      [Insert name or your water system] agradece su participacion en el programa de monitoreo de plomo en el
      agua de grifo. Un nivel de [insert data from the laboratory analysis of the sample collected — make sure the
      value is in ppb] ha resultado de la muestra obtenida el [date], en la ubicacion de [insert address of customer].

      6. Su resultado se halla por encima del nivel de accion para el plomo de 15 partes por mil millones (ppb).
      No obstante, nuestro sistema de aguas todavia no ha calculado el valor de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema y
      todavia no sabemos si nuestro sistema se halla por encima del nivel de accion para el plomo.

      |Que significa este resultado?
      Bajo a la autoridad de la Ley de Agua Potable Segura, la Agencia de Protection del Medio Ambiente
      (Environmental Protection Agency, o EPA por sus siglas en ingles) de los Estados Unidos establecio a
      15 partes por mil millones (ppb) el nivel de accion para el plomo en el agua potable. Esto significa que
      los servicios piiblicos deben asegurarse que el agua de grifo de sus clientes no exceda dicho nivel en el 90
      por ciento de hogares analizados (valor de percentil 90). El nivel de accion significa una concentration de
      contaminante que una vez excedida provoca el tratamiento u otros requisites que debe acatar un sistema de
      aguas.  Si el agua de grifo excede dicho h'mite, el servicio piiblico debe entonces emprender ciertas medidas
      para corregir el problema. Debido a que el plomo puede conllevar series riesgos para la salud, la EPA ha
      establecido un Objetivo de Nivel Maximo de Contaminante (MCLG por sus siglas en ingles) de cero para el
      plomo. El MCLG es el nivel de un contaminante en el agua potable cuyo valor menor no presenta ningun riesgo
      conocido o previsto para la salud. Los niveles MCLG ofrecen un margen de seguridad.

      Estamos en proceso de determinar el valor de percentil 90 de nuestro sistema de aguas. Usted puede
      llamarnos al [insert water system phone number] despues de [insert date that your 90th percentile
      calculation information will be available] para conocer el valor percentil 90 de nuestro sistema. Si nuestro
      valor percentil 90 se halla debajo del nivel de accion para el plomo, no sera necesario emprender medidas
      suplementarias y seguiremos con nuestro programa regular de monitoreo del plomo en el agua potable.

      Si nuestro valor de percentil 90 se halla en excedencia del nivel de accion para el plomo existen ciertas
      medidas que emprenderemos para corregir este problema. Comenzaremos a tomar muestras cada 6 meses
      con el fin de monitorear de cerca los niveles de plomo en nuestro sistema de aguas. Su participacion y apoyo
      continues en nuestro programa de supervision de agua de grifo es de  gran importancia. Iniciaremos una
      campana de Education Piiblica que permita cerciorarse de que todos  nuestros clientes se hallan conscientes
      de la excedencia en el nivel de accion, comprenden como el plomo afecta la salud, conocen las fuentes de
      plomo y saben que acciones pueden emprender con el fin de reducir la exposition al plomo en el agua
      potable. Tambien monitorearemos nuestra agua potable, estableceremos controles cuyo fin es reducir la
      corrosividad de nuestra agua (el agua corrosiva puede disolver el plomo de los materiales que lo contengan) e
      iniciaremos el reemplazo de Imeas de servicio [for those systems with  lead service lines].

      Es posible que su nivel de plomo se deba a condiciones intrinsecas a su hogar, tales como la existencia de

82

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                       A Guide for Community Water Systems

soldaduras de plomo o de grifos, accesorios y valvulas de laton que pueden contener plomo. .Nuestro sistema
se esfuerza en reducir al maximo la corrosividad de nuestra agua (el agua corrosiva puede disolver el plomo
de los materiales que lo contengan) y usted puede emprender ciertas medidas para reducir la exposicion. We
strongly urge you to take the steps below to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water Le aconsejamos
seriamente de emprender las medidas a continuation para reducir su nivel de exposicion al plomo en el agua
potable.

|C6mo afecta el plomo a la salud?
El plomo puede causar serios problemas de salud si cantidades excesivas provenientes del agua potable, u
otras fuentes, se introducen en su cuerpo. Puede danar al cerebro y a los rinones e interferir en la production
de globulos rojos que transportan oxfgeno a todas las partes de su cuerpo. El riesgo mas serio de exposicion
al plomo es para los infantes, los ninos de baja edad y las mujeres encintas. Los cientificos han conectado los
efectos del plomo en el cerebro con coeficientes de inteligencia mas reducidos en los ninos. Niveles bajos de
plomo tienen un mayor efecto en los adultos con problemas de rinon y de alta presion sanguinea que en los
adultos sanos. El plomo se almacena en los huesos y puede ser dispersado mas tarde en la vida. Durante el
embarazo, el bebe recibe plomo proveniente de los huesos maternos lo cual puede afectar el desarrollo  de su
cerebro. Si la exposicion al plomo lo  preocupa puede consultar con su proveedor de atencion medica acerca
de un analisis de sangre de los ninos para determinar cuales son los niveles plomo.

^Cuales son las fuentes del plomo?
Las fuentes principales de la exposicion al plomo para la mayoria de ninos radican en la pintura con plomo
que se deteriora, la  tierra residencial y el polvo contaminados con  plomo. La exposicion al plomo es de
especial importancia para la salud, especialmente para los ninos de baja edad y para los infantes cuyos
cuerpos crecientes tienen tendencia a absorber mayores cantidades de plomo que un adulto corriente.
Aunque los niveles  de plomo en el agua potable de su hogar se hallaron debajo del nivel de action, si
siente inquietud por la exposicion al plomo, se recomienda que los padres consulten a sus proveedores de
atencion medica acerca de un analisis de sangre para determinar cuales son los niveles de plomo en los
ninos. Raramente existe plomo en el  agua de fuente, sino que se introduce en el agua de grifo debido a la
corrosion de los materiales de fontanerfa. Las casas construidas antes de 1988 suelen tener tuben'as de plomo
o soldaduras de plomo.

iQue puedo hacer para reducir la exposicion al plomo en el agua de grifo?
>  Deje correr el agua para eliminar el plomo. Deje correr el agua unos 15 a 30 segundos, si no se ha
   utilizado agua en varias horas, para eliminar el plomo de la fontanerfa interior [or insert a different
   flushing time if your system has representative data indicating a different flushing time would better
   reduce lead exposure in your community and if the State Primacy Agency approves  the wording] o  hasta
   que se enfrie o alcance una temperatura constante antes de utilizar el agua para beber o cocinar.
>  Utilice agua friia para cocinar y para preparar la formula para bebes.  No cocine  ni beba agua del
   grifo de agua caliente ya que el plomo se disuelve facilmente en agua caliente.  No utilice el grifo de agua
   caliente para preparar la formula para bebes.
*  No hierva el agua para eliminar plomo. El agua hervida no reduce el plomo.
>  Busque otras fuentes o formas de tratar el agua. Usted puede comprar agua en botellas o un filtro de
   agua. Lea el embalaje y cerciorese de que el filtro se halla aprobado para reducir plomo.
* Analice periodicamente el plomo en su agua. Llamenos al [insert phone number for your water system]
   para saber como y cuando repetir el analisis de plomo en su agua. [Include information on your water
   system's testing program. For example, do you provide free testing? Are there labs in your area that are
                                                                                                       83

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


         certified to do lead in water  testing?]
      »•  Identifique y reemplace el  equipo de fontaneria que contenga plomo. Los grifos, los accesorios y las
         valvulas de laton, inclusive las que se anuncian estar "sin plomo", pueden contribuir al plomo en el agua
         potable. En la actualidad la ley permite que los accesorios de uso final de laton, tales como los grifos, cuyo
         tenor puede tener hasta 8 por ciento de plomo, puedan etiquetarse "sin plomo". Esta ley tambien exige
         que los grifos y otros accesorios de uso final tengan una certificacion independiente que cumpla con la
         Norma 61 NSF/ANSI. Los productos conformes se hallan marcados directamente en el producto mismo
         o en el embalaje.

      Para mas informacion
      Llamenos al [insert your water system's phone number]. Para mas informacion acerca de la reduccion de
      exposicion al plomo en su hogar y los efectos del plomo en la salud puede visitar el sitio Internet en www.
      epa.gov/lead, llamar al centre nacional de informacion sobre el plomo (National Lead Information Center)
      marcando el 1-800-424-LEAD (424-5323)  6 bien consultar a su proveedor de atencion.
84

-------
            Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                      A Guide for Community Water Systems
                      Appendix C
Contacts and Additional Resources

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems
       Federal  Informational Sources

       > EPA's Web site on Lead: www.epa.gov/lead
       > EPA's Web site on Lead in Drinking Water: www.epa.gov/safewater/lead
       > EPA's Web site on Reducing Lead in Drinking Water in Schools and Day Care Centers: www.epa.gov/
         safewater/schools.
       * Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Web site on Lead: www.cdc.gov/lead
       * National Lead Information Center Hotline: (800) 424-LEAD
       > EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791


       State Drinking Water and  Lead Poisoning Prevention
       Informational Sources
        State
Lead in Drinking Water Program
Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
        Alabama      Alabama Department of Environmental
                    Management, Water Supply Branch
                    Phone:(334)271-7700
                    Web site: www.adem.state.al.us/WaterDivision/
                    Drinking/DWMainlnfo.htm
        Alaska       Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation,
                    Division of Environmental Health, Drinking Water
                    and Wastewater Program
                    Phone: (907) 269-7647
                    Web site: www.dec.state.ak.us/eh/dw/
        Arizona       Arizona Department of Environmental Quality,
                    Drinking Water Section
                    Phone: (602)771-2300
                    Toll-free Phone:  (800) 234-5677
                    Web site: www.azdeq.gov/environ/water/dw/

        Arkansas      Arkansas Department of Health and  Human
                    Services, Division of Engineering
                    Phone:(501)661-2623
                    Web site: http://www.healthyarkansas.com/eng/
                    index.html
        California     California Department of Public Health, Division of
                    Drinking Water and Environmental Management
                    Phone:(916)449-5600
                    Web site: www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/Pages/
                    ddwem.aspx
        Colorado      Colorado Department of Public Health and
                    Environment, Water Quality Control  Division
                    Phone: (303) 692-3500
                    Web site: www.cdphe.state.co.us/wq/index.html

        Connecticut   Connecticut Department of Public Health, Water
                    Supplies Section
                    Phone: (860) 509-7333
                    Web site: www.dph.state.ct.us/BRS/Water/DWD.
                    htm
                                         Alabama Department of Public Health, Bureau of
                                         Family Health Services, Childhood Lead Poisoning
                                         Prevention Program
                                         Phone: (334) 206-2966
                                         Web site: www.adph.org/aclppp
                                         Alaska Department of Health and Social Services,
                                         Division of Public Health, Section of Epidemiology
                                         Phone: (907) 269-8086
                                         Web site: www.epi.hss.state.ak.us/eh/default.stm

                                         Arizona Department of Health Services, Office of
                                         Environmental Health, Lead Poisoning Prevention
                                         Program
                                         Phone:(602)364-3118
                                         Web site: www.azdhs.gov/phs/oeh/invsurv/lead/
                                         index.htm
                                         Arkansas Department of Health, Lead Based Paint
                                         Program
                                         Phone:501-661-2000
                                         Web site: www.healthyarkansas.com/faq/faqjead.
                                         html
                                         California Department of Health Services, Childhood
                                         Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch
                                         Phone: (510)620-5600
                                         Web site: www.dhs.ca.gov/childlead/

                                         Colorado Department of Public Health and
                                         Environment, Lead Poisoning Prevention
                                         Phone:(303)739-1123
                                         Web site: www.cdphe.state.co.us/dc/lead/index.
                                         html
                                         Connecticut Department of Public Health, Lead
                                         Poisoning Prevention and Control Program
                                         Phone: (860) 509-7299
                                         Web site: www.ct.gov/dph/cwp/view.
                                         asp?a=3140&q=387550
86

-------
                                                           Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                            A Guide for Community Water Systems
Delaware      Delaware Health and Social Services, Division of
              Public Health, Environmental Evaluation Branch,
              Office of Drinking Water
              Phone:(302)741-8630
              Web site: www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/hsp/
              odw.htm!
Florida        Florida Department of Environmental Protection,
              Drinking Water Program
              Phone: (850) 245-8336
              Web site: www.dep.state.fl.us/water/
              drinkingwater/index.htm
Georgia       Georgia Department of Natural Resources,
              Environmental Protection Division, Water Resource
              Branch
              Phone: (404) 675-6232
              Web site: www.georgiaepd.org/Documents/wpb.
              html
Hawaii        Hawaii Department of Health, Environmental
              Management Division
              Phone: (808) 586-4258
              Web site: www.hawaii.gov/health/
              environmental/water/sdwb/index.html
Idaho         Idaho  Department of Environmental Quality,
              Division of Environmental Quality, Drinking Water
              Program
              Phone: (208) 373-0291
              Web site: www.deq.idaho.gov/water/prog_
              issues/drinking_water/overview.cfm
Illinois         Illinois EPA, Division of Public Water Supplies
              Phone: (217)785-8653
              Web site: www.epa.state.il.us/water/
Indiana        Indiana Department of Environmental
              Management, Office of Water Quality
              Phone:(317)232-8670
              Web site: www.in.gov/idem/programs/water/
              index.html
Iowa          Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Water
              Supply Program
              Phone:(515)725-0282
              Web site: www.iowadnr.com/water/drinking/
              index.html
Kansas        Kansas Department of Health and Environment,
              Bureau of Water, Public Water Supply Section
              Phone: (785) 296-5500
              Web site: www.kdheks.gov/pws/
Kentucky      Kentucky Department of Environmental Protection,
              Division of Water, Water Supply Branch
              Phone: (502) 564-3410 ext. 552
              Web site: www.water.ky.gov/dw/
Delaware Health and Social Services, Division of
Public Health, Office of Lead Poisoning Prevention
Phone: (302) 744-4546
Web site: www.dhss.delaware.gov/dph/hsp/Iead.
html

Florida Department of Health, Division of
Environmental Health, Bureau of Community
Environmental Health, Childhood Lead Poisoning
Prevention Program
Phone: (850) 245-4250
Web site: www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/
community/lead/
Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of
Public Health, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
Program
Phone: (404) 463-3754
Web site: http://health.state.ga.us/programs/lead/

Hawaii Department of Health, Maternal and Child
Health Branch
Phone: (808) 733-9022
Web site: http://hawaii.gov/health/family~child-
health/mchb/index.html
Idaho Division of Health and Welfare,  Bureau of
Community and Environmental Health, Indoor
Environment Program
Phone: (800) 926-2588
Web site: www.healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/
portal/alias	Rainbow/lang	en-US/tabID	3392/
DesktopDefault.aspx

Illinois Department of Public Health, Childhood Lead
Poisoning
Phone:(217)782-3517
Web site: www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hblead.
htm
Indiana Department of Health, Children's Lead
Poisoning Prevention
Phone:(317)233-1325
Web site: www.in.gov/isdh/programs/lead/index.
htm
Iowa Department of Public Health, Bureau of Lead
Poisoning Prevention
Phone: (800) 972-2026
Web site: www.idph.state.ia.us/eh/lead_poisoning_
prevention.asp
Kansas Department of Health and Environment,
Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Prevention  Program
Phone: (866)-865-3233
Web site: www.kdheks.gov/lead/
Kentucky Department of Public Health, Center for
Health and Family Services, Adult and  Child Health,
Maternal and Child Health, Child Lead Poisoning
Prevention Program
Phone: (502) 564-2154
Web site: http://chfs.ky.gov/dph/ach/mch/clppp.
htm
                                                                                                               87

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
         Louisiana      Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals,
                      Office of Public Health, Center for Environmental
                      and Health Services, Safe Drinking Water Program
                      Phone: (225) 342-9500
                      Web site: www.dhh.louisiana.gov/
                      offices/?ID=238

         Maine        Maine Department of Health and Human Services,
                      Drinking Water Program
                      Phone: (207) 287-2070
                      Web site: www.maine.gov/dhhs/eng/water/
        Maryland      Maryland Department of the Environment, Water
                      Supply Program
                      Phone:(410)537-3702
                      Web site: www.mde.state.md.us/Programs/
                      WaterPrograms/Water_Suppiy/index,asp
        Massachusetts Massachusetts Department of Environment,
                      Drinking Water Program
                      Phone: 617-292-5770
                      Web site: www.mass.gov/dep/water/drinking.
                      htm
        Michigan      Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,
                      Water Bureau
                      Phone:(517)241-1300
                      Web site: www.michigan.gov/deqwater

        Minnesota     Minnesota Department of Health, Drinking Water
                      Protection Section
                      Phone:(651)201-4700
                      Web site: www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/water/
                      index.html
        Mississippi     Mississippi State Department of Health, Water
                      Supply Division
                      Phone:(601)576-7518
                      Web site: www.msdh.state.ms.us/msdhsite/_
                      static/44,0,76.html
        Missouri       Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Division
                      of Environmental Quality, Public Drinking Water
                      Branch
                      Phone: (800) 361-4827
                      Website: www.dni.nio.gov/env/wpp/dw-index.
                      htrn
        Montana      Montana Department of Environmental Quality,
                      Public Water Supply Program
                      Phone: (406) 444-4400
                      Web site: www.deq.state.mt.us/wqinfo/pws/
                      index.asp
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office
of Public Health, Center for Preventive Health, Genetic
Diseases, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
Programs
Phone:(504)219-4413
Web site: www.dhh.louisiana.gov/offices/page.
asp?ID=263&Detail=6296
Maine Department of Health and Human Services,
Division of Environmental Health, Environmental
and Occupational Health Programs, Childhood Lead
Program
Phone: (207) 287-8671
Web site: http://maine.gov/dhhs/eohp/lead/
Maryland Department of the Environment, Lead
Poisoning Prevention Program
Phone: (800)776-2706
Web site: www.mde.state.md.us/programs/
landprograms/teadcoordination/index.asp
Massachusetts Office of Health and Human Services,
Department of Public Health,  Childhood Lead
Poisoning Prevention Program
Phone: (800) 532-9571
Web site: www.mass.gov/?pagelD=eohhs2ter
minal&L=5&LO=Home&L1=Government&L2
= Departments+and + Divisions&L3 = Departm
ent+of+Public+Health&L4=Programs+and +
Services+A+-+J&sid = Eeohhs2&b=termmalc
ontent&f=dph_environmentaljead_g_clppp_
about&csid=Eeohhs2
Michigan Department of Community Health,
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Phone:(517)335-8885
Web site: www.michigan.gov/mdch/0,1607,7-132-2
942_4911_4913—.OO.htrni
Minnesota Department of Health, Lead Poisoning
Prevention
Phone:(651)201-4620
Web site: www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/lead/
index.html
Mississippi State Department  of Health, Childhood
Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Phone:(601)576-7447
Web site: www.msdh.state.ms.us/rnsdhsite/_
static/41,0,176.html
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services,
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Phone: (573) 526-4911
Web site: www.dhss.mo.gov/ChildhoodLead/
Montana Department of Public Health and Human
Services, Lead Program
Phone: (406) 444-5622
Web site: www.dphhs.mt.gov/epht/lead.shtml
88

-------
                                                           Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                             A Guide for Community Water Systems
 Nebraska      Nebraska Department of Health and Human
              Services, Environmental  Health Services Section,
              Public Water Supply Program
              Phone:(402)471-2306
              Web site: www.hhs.state.ne.us/enh/pwsindex.
              htm
 Nevada       Nevada Bureau of Health Protection Services,
              Division of Environmental Protection, Bureau of
              Safe Drinking Water
              Phone: (775) 687-9520
              Web site: http://ndep.nv.gov/bsdw/index.htm
 New          New Hampshire Department of Environmental
 Hampshire    Services, Drinking Water and Ground Water
              Bureau, Drinking Water Source Protection Program
              Phone:(603)271-3503
              Web site: www.des.state.nh.us/dwspp

 New Jersey    New Jersey Department  of Environmental
              Protection, Division of Water Supply, Bureau of
              Safe Drinking Water
              Phone: (609)292-5550
              Web site: www.state.nj.us/dep/watersupply/
              safedrnk.htm
 New Mexico   New Mexico  Environmental Department, Drinking
              Water Bureau
              Phone: (877) 654-8720 (Toll-free)
              Web site: www.nmenv.state.nm.us/dwb/dwbtop.
              html
                                              Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services,
                                              Lead-Based Paint Program
                                              Phone:(402)471-0386
                                              Web site: www.dhhs.ne.gov/puh/enh/leadpaint/
                                              leadindex.htm

                                              Southern Nevada Health District, Childhood Lead
                                              Poisoning Prevention Program
                                              Phone: (702)759-1000
                                              Web site: www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/
                                              clppp/index.htm
                                              New Hampshire Department of Health and Human
                                              Services, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
                                              Program
                                              Phone:(603)271-4507
                                              Web site: www.dhhs.state.nh.us/DHHS/CLPPP/
                                              default.htm
                                              New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services,
                                              Family Health Services, Childhood Lead  Prevention
                                              Program
                                              Phone: (609) 292-7837
                                              Web site: www.state.nj.us/health/fhs/newborn/
                                              lead.shtml
                                              New Mexico Department of Health, Environmental
                                              Health Epidemiology Bureau, Lead Poisoning
                                              Prevention Program
                                              Phone: (888) 878-8992
                                              Web site: www.health.state.nm.us/eheb/lead.html
New York      New York Department of Health, Drinking Water    New York Department of Health, Bureau of Child and
              Protection Program                             Adolescent Health, Lead Program
              Phone: (800) 458-1158                          Phone: (518) 474-2084
              Web site: http://health.state.ny.us/environmental/ Web site: www.nyhealth.gov/environmental/lead/
              lead/leadwtr.htm
North Carolina North Carolina Department of the Environment and North Carolina Department of Environment and
              Natural Resources, Public Water Supply Section     Natural Resources, Children's Environmental Health
              Phone: (919) 733-2321                          Branch, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
              Web site: www.deh.enr.state.nc.us/pws/index.htmPhone: (919) 715-5237
                                                           Web site: www.deh.enr.state.nc,us/ehs/Children_
                                                           Health/Lead/lead.htrnl
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
North Dakota Department of Health, Drinking WaterNorth Dakota Department of Health, Lead Based Paint
Program                                       Phone: (701) 328.5188
Phone: (701) 328-5211                          Web site: www.health.state.nd.us/aq/iaq/lbp/index.
Web site: www.health.state.nd.us/MF/dw.html    htm
Ohio EPA, Division of Drinking and Ground Waters
Phone: (614) 644-2752
Web site: www.epa.state.oh.us/ddagw/

Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality,
Water Quality Division
Phone: (405)702-8100
Web site: www.deq.state.ok.us/WQDNew/
Ohio Department of Health, Lead Poisoning Prevention
Phone: (877) 668-5323
Web site: www.odh.ohio.gov/odhPrograms/dspc/
Ip_prev/lp_prev1 .aspx
Oklahoma Department of Health, Childhood Lead
Poisoning Prevention Program
Phone: (405)271-6617
Web site: www.ok,gov/hea!th/Child_and_Family_
Health/Screening,_Specia!_Services_and_Sooner_
Start/Oklahoma_Childhood_tead_Poisoning_
Prevention_Progranyindex.html
                                                                                                               89

-------
       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems
        Oregon
        Pennsylvania
                                                           Oregon Department of Human Services, Public Health
                                                           Division, Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
                                                           Phone:(971)673-0440
                                                           Web site: www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/lead/index.shtrnI
                                                           Pennsylvania Department of Health, Lead Poisoning
Oregon Department of Human Services, Public
Health Division, Drinking Water Program
Phone: (971) 673-0405
Web site: www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/dwp/
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental
Protection, Bureau of Water Supply and Wastewater Prevention and Control Program
Management                                  Phone: (800) 440-5323
Phone: (717) 787-9637                          Web site: www.dsf.health.state.pa.us/health/cwp/
Web site: www.depweb.state.pa.us/watersupply/ view.asp?a = 179&q=201197
cwp/view.asp?a=1251&Q=448745&watersupply
Nav=|30131|
        Puerto Rico
              Puerto Rico Department of Health, Water Supply
              Supervision Program
              Phone: (787)767-8181
              Web site: www.salud.gov.pr/Pages/default.aspx
Rhode Island   Rhode Island Department of Health, Office of
              Drinking Water Quality
              Phone:(401)222-6867
              Web site: www.health.state.ri.us/environment/
              dwq/index.php
South Carolina South Carolina Department of Health and
              Environmental Control, Bureau of Water
              Phone: (803) 898-4300
              Web site: www.scdhec.net/water/html/dwater.
              html
        South Dakota  South Dakota Department of Environment and
                     Natural Resources, Drinking Water Program
                     Phone: (605) 773-3754
                     Web site: www.state.sd.us/DENR/des/drinking/
                     dwprg.htm
        Tennessee
        Texas
        Utah
             Tennessee Department of Environment and
             Conservation, Division of Water Supply
             Phone: (615)532-0191
             Web site: www.state.tn.us/environment/dws/
             Texas Commission on Environmental Quality,
             Drinking Water and Water Availability.
             Phone: (512)239-4691
             Web site: www.tceq.state.tx.us/nav/util_water/
                                              Puerto Rico Department of Health
                                              Phone: (787) 274-7676
                                              Web site: www.salud.gov.pr/Pages/default.aspx

                                              Rhode Island Department of Health, Childhood Lead
                                              Poisoning Prevention Program
                                              Phone: (800) 942-7434
                                              Web site: www.health.state.ri.us/lead/index.php

                                              South Carolina Department of Health and
                                              Environmental Control, Women's and Children's
                                              Services, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
                                              Program
                                              Phone: (866) 466-5323
                                              Web site: www.scdhec.gov/health/mch/wcs/ch/lead.
                                              htm
                                              EPA Region 8 Lead Program
                                              Phone:(303)312-6966
                                              Web site: www.epa.gov/region8/toxics_pesticides/
                                              leadpnVindex.html

                                             Tennessee Department of Health, Childhood Lead
                                              Poisoning Prevention Program
                                              Phone:(615)741-7305
                                              Web site: http://health.state.tn.us/lead/index.htm
                                              Texas Department of State Health Services, Childhood
                                              Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
                                              Phone:(800)588-1248
                                              Web site: www.dshs.state.tx.us/lead/default.shtm
              Utah Department of Environmental Quality, Division Utah Department of Environmental Quality, Office of
              of Drinking Water                              Epidemiology, Child Blood Lead Epidemiology and
              Phone: (801) 536-4200                          Surveillance
              Web site: www.drinkingwater.utah.gov/         Phone: (801) 538-6191
                                                           Web site: http://health.utah.gov/epi/enviroepi/
                                                           ables98/chiid.htm
        Vermont
        Virginia
             Vermont Department of Environmental
             Conservation, Water Supply Division
             Phone:802-241-3400
             Toll-free: 800-823-6500
             Website: www.vermontdrinkingwater.org/
             Virginia Department of Health, Office of Drinking
             Water
             Phone: (804) 864-7500
             Web site: www.vdh.virginia.gov/DrinkingWater/
             Consumer/
                                              Vermont Department of Health, Health Protection
                                              Division, Lead Surveillance Program
                                              Phone: (802) 865-7786
                                              Web site: http://healthvermont.gov/enviro/lead/lead.
                                              aspx
                                              Virginia Department of Health, Office of Family
                                              Health Services, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention
                                              Program
                                              Phone: (804) 864-7694
                                              Web site: www.vahealth.org/leadsafe/
90

-------
                                                            Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                             A Guide for Community Water Systems
Washington,
DC
Washington
DC Department of Health, Environmental Health
Administration, Water Quality Division
Phone:(202)535-2190
Web site: http://doh.dc.gov/doh/cwp/
view,a,1374,Q,586624,dohNav_GID, 1811,. asp
EPA Web site on Lead in DC Drinking Water:
http://www.epa.gov/dclead/
Washington Department of Health, Division of
Environmental  Health, Office of Drinking Water
Phone:(360)236-3100
Web site: www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/dw/
                                                            DC Department of Health, Lead Poisoning Prevention
                                                            Program
                                                            Phone: (202)442-9216
                                                            Web site: http://doh.dc.gov/doh/site/default.asp
                                                            Washington Department of Health, Division of
                                                            Environmental Health, Office of Environmental Health
                                                            Assessments
                                                            Phone: (800) 909-9898
                                                            Web site: www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/lead/default.htm
                                                            West Virginia Department of Health and Human
                                                            Services, Bureau of Public Health, Radiation, Toxics,
                                                            and Air Division
                                                            Phone: (304)558-6716
                                                            Web site: www.wvdhhr.org/rtia/lead.asp
Wisconsin     Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services,
West Virginia   West Virginia Department of Health and Human
              Services, Environmental Engineering Division
              Phone:(304)558-6715
              Web site: www.wvdhhr.org/oehs/eed/
              of Drinking Water and Groundwater
              Phone: (608)266-2621
              Web site: www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/water/dwg/
Wyoming      U.S. EPA Region 8 Drinking Water Program
              Phone:(303)312-6337
              Web site: http://epa.gov/region8/water/dwhome/
              wycon.html
                                              Lead-Safe Wisconsin
                                              Phone: (608)261-6876
                                              Web site: www.dhfs,state.wi.us/lead/
                                              Wyoming Department of Health, Preventive Health
                                              and Safety Division, Lead Poisoning Prevention
                                              Program
                                              Phone: (307) 777-6015
                                              Web site: http://wdh.state.wy.us/PHSD/lead/index.
                                              htm/
                                                                                                               91

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Resources to Locate  Organizations  in  Your  Service
      Area

      For a list of organizations in your service area, waters systems should consult with their local public health
      agency first, as they may have lists of the following organizations in your area. However, the Web sites below
      have directories where you can input your location to find surrounding organizations.

      >•  Local Public Health Agencies
         Contact your state or local county government
         National Association of County and City Health Officials, Local Public Health Agency Index
         http://lhadirectory.naccho.org/phdir/
      >  Public and Private Schools or School Boards
         US Department of Education, Institute for Education Sciences, National Center for Education Statistics
         http://nces.ed.gov/globallocator/
      *  Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and Head Start programs
         US Department of Agriculture, Food  and Nutrition Service, WIC State Agency Contacts
         www.fins.usda.gov/wic/Contacts/ContactsMenu.HTM
         US Department of Health and Human Services, Head Start Locator
         http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/HeadStartOrTices
      *  Public and Private Hospitals and Medical clinics
         Contact your local health agency
      *•  Pediatricians
         American Academy of Pediatrics Referral Service www.aap.org/referral/
         American Board of Pediatrics  www.abp.org/ABPVfebSite/
      *  Family Planning Clinics
         Contact your local health agency
      *  Local Welfare Agencies
         Contact your local health agency
      >  Licensed childcare centers
         National Child Care Association www.nccanet.org
      »>  Public and private preschools
         US Department of Education, Institute for Education Sciences, National Center for Education Statistics
         http://nces.ed.gov/globallocator/
      >•  Obstetricians-Gynecologists and Midwives
         American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Physician Lookup
         www.acog.org/member-lookup/
         American College of Nurse-Midwives www.midwife.org/find.cfm
92

-------
                                                     Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                     A Guide for Community Water Systems
                                         Publications

Regulatory Publications
Environmental Protection Agency, 40 CFR 141 and 142 - Drinking Water Regulations; Maximum
   Contaminant Level Goals and National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for Lead and Copper; Final
   Rule (72 FR 57782, October 10,2007). This Federal Register Notice and further information is available
   at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/index.html.

Guidance Documents
"Lead and Copper Rule:  Revised Quick Reference Guide for Schools and Child Care Facilities that are
   Regulated Under the Safe Drinking Water Act." US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water,
   Washington, DC. October 2005, EPA 816-F-05-030. This document is  available at
   http://www.epa.gov/safewater/schools/.

"Lead and Copper Rule: Revised Quick Reference Guide." US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
   Water, Washington, DC. June 2008,  EPA 816-F-08-018. This document is available at
   http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/.

"How to Determine Compliance with Optimal Water Quality Parameters as Revised by the Lead and
   Copper Rule Minor Revisions." US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington, DC.
   February 2001, EPA 815-R-99-019. This document is available at  http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/.

Risk Communications
"AWWA Public Communications Toolkit." American Water Works Association." This document is available
   at http://www.awwa.org/Government/Content.cfm?ItemNumber=3851 &navItemNumber=3852.

Public Information and Fact Sheets
 "Water Health Series: Filtration Facts."  US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington,
   DC. September 2005, 816-K-05-002. This document is available at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/.

"Is There Lead in my Drinking Water?: You can Reduce the Risk of Lead Exposure from Drinking Water"
   US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington, DC. February 2005, EPA
   816-F-05-001. This document is available in English and Spanish at
   http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead/leodfactsheet.html.

"Controlling Lead in Drinking Water for Schools and Day Care Facilities: A Summary of State Programs."
   US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington, DC. July 2004, EPA-810-R-04-001.
   This document is available at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcnnr/.

"Tap Into Prevention: Drinking Water Information for Health Care Providers." US Environmental
   Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington, DC. August 2004, EPA 816-C-04-001. This video is
   available in DVD and VHS format at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/healthcare/index.html.

"Water on Tap: What you Need to Know." US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
   Water, Washington, DC. October 2003, EPA 816-K-03-007. This document is available in English,
   Spanish and Chinese at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/wot/index.html.
                                                                                                   93

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems
      "Is There Lead in the Drinking Water?: You Can Reduce the Risk of Lead Exposure from Drinking Water
         in Educational Facilities" US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington DC. April
         2002, 903-FO1-002. This document is available at
         http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead/.

      "Is There Lead in My Drinking Water?: You Can Reduce the Risk of Lead Exposure from Drinking Water in
         Your Home." US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington, DC. February 2005,
         EPA 816-F-05-001. This document is available at
         http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw/lead/leadfactsheet.html.

      "Drinking Water from Household Wells." US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water,
         Washington, DC. January 2002, EPA 816-K-02-003. This document is available at
         http://www.epa.gov/safewater/privatewells/booklet/index.html.

      "Lead and Copper Rule: Short-Term Revisions and Clarifications Training." US Environmental Protection
         Agency, Drinking Water Academy, Washington, DC. April 2008. This presentation is available at
         http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/.

      "Children and Drinking Water Standards." US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water,
         Washington, DC. December 1999, 815-K-99-001. This document is available at
         http://www.epa.gov/safewater/kids/kidshealth/.

      "Drinking Water and Health: What You Need to Know!" US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of
         Water, Washington, DC. October 1999, EPA 816-K-99-001. This document is available in English and
         Spanish at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/dwh/index.html.

      CDC Publications
      "Preventing Lead Poisoning in Young Children." Center for Disease Control and
         Prevention, Atlanta, GA. August  2005. This document is available at
         http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/publications/pub_Reas.htm.

      "Managing Elevated Blood Lead Levels Among Young Children:  Recommendations from the Advisory
         Committee on Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention." Center for Disease Control and Prevention,
         Atlanta, GA. March 2002. This document is available at
         http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/ CaseManagement/caseManage_main.htm.
94

-------
     Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
              A Guide for Community Water Systems
              Appendix D
 Lead and Copper Rule Public
   Education Requirements—
Federal Regulatory Language

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


      Lead  and Copper  Rule Short-Term Revisions and

      Clarifications that Relate to Public  Education

      Requirements

      §141.85 Public education and supplemental monitoring requirements.

      All water systems must deliver a consumer notice of lead tap water monitoring results to persons served by
      the water system at sites that are tested, as specified in paragraph (d) of this section. A water system that
      exceeds the lead action level based on tap water samples collected in accordance with §141.86 shall deliver
      the public education materials contained in paragraph (a) of this section in accordance with the requirements
      in paragraph (b) of this section. Water systems that exceed the lead action level must sample the tap water of
      any customer who requests it in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.

      (a) Content of written public education materials.

       (1) Community water systems and Non-transient non-community water systems. Water systems must
       include the following elements in printed materials (e.g., brochures and pamphlets) in the same order as
       listed below. In addition, paragraphs (a)(l)(i) through (ii) and (a)(l)(vi) must be included in the materials,
       exactly as written, except for the text in brackets in these paragraphs for which the water system must
       include system-specific information. Any additional information presented by a water system must be
       consistent with the information below and be in plain language that can be understood by the general
       public. Water systems must submit all written public education materials to the State prior to delivery.
       The State may require the system to obtain approval of the content of written public materials prior to
       delivery.

        (i) IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT LEAD IN YOUR DRINKING WATER. [INSERT
        NAME OF WATER SYSTEM] found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/buildings.
        Lead can cause serious health problems,  especially for pregnant women and young children. Please read
        this information closely to see what you  can do to reduce lead in your drinking water.

        (ii) Health effects of lead. Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from
        drinking water or other sources. It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with
        the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of lead
        exposure is to infants, young children, and pregnant women.  Scientists have linked the effects of lead
        on the brain widi lowered IQ in children.  Adults with kidney problems and high blood pressure can be
        affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults. Lead is stored in the bones, and it can be released
        later in life. During pregnancy, the child receives lead from the mother's bones, which may affect brain
        development.

        (iii) Sources of Lead.
            (A) Explain what lead is.
            (B) Explain possible sources of lead  in drinking water and how lead enters drinking water. Include
               information on home/building plumbing materials and service lines that may contain lead.
            (C) Discuss other important sources of lead exposure in addition to drinking water (e.g., paint).

        (iv) Discuss the steps the consumer can take to reduce their exposure to lead in drinking water.
            (A) Encourage running the water to flush out the lead.
96

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems


       (B) Explain concerns with using hot water from the tap and specifically caution against the use of hot
          water for preparing baby formula.
       (C) Explain that boiling water does not reduce lead levels.
       (D) Discuss other options consumers can take to reduce exposure to. lead in drinking water, such as
          alternative sources or treatment of water.
       (E) Suggest that parents have their child's blood tested for lead.

   (v) Explain why there are elevated levels of lead in the system's drinking water (if known) and what the
   water system is doing to reduce the lead levels in homes/buildings in this area.

   (vi) For more information, call us at [INSERT YOUR NUMBER]  [(IF APPLICABLE), or visit our Web
   site at [INSERT YOUR WEB SITE HERE]].  For more information on reducing lead exposure around
   your home/building and the health effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at http://www.epa.gov/leaeloT
   contact your health care provider.

  (2) Community water  systems. In addition to including the elements specified in paragraph (a)(l) of this
  section, community water systems must:

   (i) Tell  consumers how to get their water tested.

   (ii) Discuss lead in  plumbing components and the difference between low lead and lead free.

(b) Delivery of public  education materials.

  (1) For public water systems serving a large proportion of non-English speaking consumers, as determined
  by the State,  the public education materials must contain information in the appropriate language(s)
  regarding the importance of the notice or contain a telephone number or address where persons served
  may contact  the water system to obtain a translated copy of the public education materials or to request
  assistance in  the appropriate language.

  (2) A community water system that exceeds the lead action level on the basis of tap water samples collected
  in accordance with §141.86, and that is not already conducting public education tasks under this section,
  must conduct the public education tasks under this section within 60 days after the end of the monitoring
  period in which the exceedance occurred:

   (i) Deliver printed materials meeting the content requirements of paragraph (a) of this section to all
          bill paying customers. •

   (ii)  (A)  Contact customers who are most at risk by delivering education materials that meet the
       content requirements of paragraph (a) of this section to local public health agencies  even
       if they are not located within the water system's service area, along with an informational notice
       that encourages distribution to all the organization's potentially affected customers or community
       water system's users. The water system must contact the local public health agencies directly by
       phone  or in person. The local public health agencies may provide a specific list of additional
       community based organizations serving target populations, which may include organizations outside
   the service area of the water system.  If such lists are provided, systems must deliver education
   materials  that meet the content requirements of paragraph (a) of this section to all organizations on
   the provided lists.
                                                                                                       97

-------
      Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
      A Guide for Community Water Systems


              (B) Contact customers who are most at risk by delivering materials that meet the content
              requirements of paragraph (a) of this section to the following organizations listed in 1 through 6
              that are located within the water system's service area, along with an informational notice that
              encourages distribution to all the organization's potentially affected customers or community water
              system's users:

                     (1) Public and private schools or school boards.
                     (2) Women Infants and Children (WIC) and Head Start programs.
                     (3) Public and private hospitals and medical clinics.
                     (4) Pediatricians.
                     (5) Family planning clinics.
                     (6) Local welfare agencies.

              (C) Make a good faith effort to locate the following organizations widiin the service area and deliver
              materials that meet the content requirements of paragraph (a) of this section to them, along with an
              informational notice that  encourages distribution to all potentially affected customers or users.  The
              good faith effort to contact at-risk customers may include requesting a specific contact list of these
              organizations from the local public health agencies, even if the agencies are not located within the
              water system's service area:

                     (1) Licensed childcare centers
                     (2) Public and private preschools.
                     (3) Obstetricians-Gynecologists and Midwives.

         (iii) No less often than quarterly, provide information on or in each water bill as long as the system
         exceeds the action level for lead. The message on the water bill must include the following statement
         exactly as written  except for the text in brackets for which the water system must include system-specific
         information: [INSERT NAME OF WATER SYSTEM] found high levels of lead in drinking water in
         some homes. Lead can cause serious health problems. For more information please call [INSERT NAME
         OF WATER SYSTEM] [or visit (INSERT YOUR WEB SITE HERE)]. The message or delivery
         mechanism can be modified in consultation with the State; specifically, the State may allow a separate
         mailing of public education materials to customers if the water system cannot place the information on
         water bills.

         (iv) Post material  meeting the content requirements of paragraph (a)  of this section on the water system's
         Web site if the system serves a  population greater than 100,000.

         (v) Submit a press release to newspaper, television and radio stations.

         (vi) In addition to paragraphs (b)(2)(i) through (v) of this section, systems must implement at least
         three activities from one or more categories listed below. The  educational content and selection of these
         activities must be determined in consultation with the State.

              (A) Public Service Announcements.
              (B) Paid advertisements.
              (C) Public Area Information Displays.
              (D) Emails to customers.
              (E) Public Meetings.
98

-------
                                                       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                        A Guide for Community Water Systems

      (F) Household Deliveries.
      (G) Targeted Individual Customer Contact.
      (H) Direct material distribution to all multi-family homes and institutions.
      (I)  Other methods approved by the State.

  (vii) For systems that are required to conduct monitoring annually or less frequently, the end of the
  monitoring period is September 30 of the calendar year in which the sampling occurs, or, if the State has
  established an alternate monitoring period, the last day of that period.

(3) As long as a community water system exceeds the action level, it must repeat the activities pursuant to
paragraph (b)(2) of this section as described in paragraphs (b)(3)(i) through (iv) of this section.

   (i) A community water system shall repeat the tasks contained in paragraphs (b)(2)(i), (ii) and (vi) of this
   section every 12 months.

   (ii) A community water system shall repeat tasks contained in paragraph (b)(2)(iii) of this section with
   each billing cycle.

   (iii) A community water system serving a population greater than 100,000 shall post and retain material
   on a publicly accessible Web site pursuant to paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section.

   (iv) The community water system shall repeat the task in paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section twice every
   12 months on a schedule agreed upon with the State. The State can allow activities in paragraph (b)
   (2) of this section to extend beyond the 60-day requirement if needed for implementation purposes on
   a case-by-case basis; however, this extension must be approved in writing by the State in advance of the
   60-day deadline.

(4) Within 60 days after the end of the monitoring period in which  the exceedance occurred  (unless it
already is repeating public education tasks pursuant to paragraph (b)(5) of this section), a non-transient
non-community water system shall deliver the public education materials specified by paragraph (a) of this
section as follows:

   (i) Post informational posters on lead in drinking water in a public place or common area in each of the
   buildings served by the system; and

   (ii) Distribute informational pamphlets and/or brochures on lead in drinking water to each person
   served by the non-transient non-community  water system. The State may allow the system to utilize
   electronic transmission in lieu of or combined with printed materials as long as it achieves  at least the
   same coverage.

   (iii) For systems that are  required to conduct  monitoring annually or less frequently, the end of the
   monitoring period is September 30 of the calendar year in which the sampling occurs, or, if the State has
   established an alternate monitoring period, the last day of that period.

(5) A non-transient non-community water system shall repeat the tasks contained in paragraph (b)(4) of
this section at least once during each calendar year in which the system exceeds the lead action level.  The
State can allow activities in  (b)(4) of this section to extend beyond the 60-day requirement if needed for
implementation purposes on a case-by-case basis; however, this extension must be approved in writing by
                                                                                                        99

-------

       Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
       A Guide for Community Water Systems


        the State in advance of the 60-day deadline.

        (6) A water system may discontinue delivery of public education materials if the system has met the lead
        action level during the most recent six-month monitoring period conducted pursuant to §141.86. Such a
        system shall recommence public education in accordance with this section if it subsequently exceeds the
        lead action level during any monitoring period.

        (7) A community water system may apply to the State, in writing, (unless the State has waived the
        requirement for prior State approval) to use only the text specified in paragraph (a)(l) of this section in lieu
        of the text in paragraphs (a)(l) and (a) (2) of this section and to perform the tasks listed in paragraphs (b)
        (4) and (b)(5) of this section in lieu of the tasks in paragraphs (b)(2) and (b)(3) of this section if:

          (i) The system is a facility, such as a prison or a hospital, where the population served is not capable of or
          is prevented from making improvements to plumbing or installing point of use treatment devices; and

          (ii) The system provides water as part of the cost of services provided and does not separately charge for
          water consumption.

        (8) A community water system serving 3,300 or fewer people may limit certain aspects of their public
        education programs as follows:

           (i) With respect to the requirements  of paragraph (b)(2)(vi) of this section, a system serving 3,300 or
           fewer must implement at least one of the activities listed in that paragraph.

           (ii) With respect to the requirements of paragraph (b)(2)(ii) of this section, a system serving 3,300 or
           fewer people may limit the distribution of the public education materials required under that paragraph
           to facilities and organizations served by the system that are most likely to be visited regularly by
           pregnant women and children.

           (iii) With respect to the requirements of paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section, the State may waive this
           requirement for systems serving 3,300  or fewer persons as long as system distributes  notices to every
           household served by the system.

       (c) Supplemental monitoring and notification of results.

       A water system that fails to meet the lead action level on the basis of tap samples collected in accordance with
       §141.86 shall offer to sample the tap water of any customer who requests it. The system is not required to
       pay for collecting or analyzing the sample, nor is the system required to collect and analyze the sample itself.

       (d)  Notification  of  results.

        (1) Reporting requirement. All water systems must provide a notice of the individual tap results from lead
        tap water monitoring carried out under the requirements of §141.86 to the persons served by the water
        system at the specific sampling site from which the sample was taken (e.g., the occupants of the residence
        where the tap was tested).

        (2) Timing of notification. A water system must provide the consumer notice as soon as practical, but no
        later than 30 days after the system learns of the tap monitoring results.
100

-------
                                                   Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
                                                                  A Guide for Community Water Systems

  (3) Content. The consumer notice must include the results of lead tap water monitoring for the tap that
  was tested, an explanation of the health effects of lead, list steps consumers can take to reduce exposure
  to lead in drinking water and contact information for the water utility. The notice must also provide the
  maximum contaminant level goal and the action level for lead and the definitions for these two terms from
  §!4l.l53(c).

  (4) Delivery. The consumer notice must be provided to persons served at the tap that was tested, either
  by mail or by another method approved by the State.  For example, upon approval by the State, a non-
  transient non-community water system could post the results on a bulletin board in the facility to allow
  users to review the information. The system must provide the notice to customers at sample taps tested,
  including consumers who do not receive water bills.

Section 141.90 Reporting Requirements

(f)(l) Any water system that is subject to the public education requirements in Sec. 141.85 shall, within 10
days after the end of each period in which the system is required to perform public education in accordance
with Sec. 141.85 (b), send written documentation to the State that contains:

     (i) A demonstration that the system has delivered the public education materials that meet the content
     requirements in Sec. 141.85 (a) and the delivery requirements in Sec. 141.85 (b); and

(3) No later than 3 months following the end of the monitoring period, each system must mail a sample
copy of the consumer notification results to the State along with a certification that the notification has been
distributed in a manner consistent with the requirements of Sec. 141.85 (d).


Lead and Copper Rule Short-Term Revisions  and

Clarifications that Relate to Consumer Confidence

Reports (CCR)

§141,154 Required additional health information.

  (d) Every report must include the following lead-specific information:

  (1) A short informational statement about lead in drinking water and its effects on children. The
  statement must include the following information:

  If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and
  young children.  Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with
  service lines and home plumbing.  [NAME OF UTILITY] is responsible for providing high quality
  drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components.  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 before using water for drinking or cooking.  If you are concerned about
  lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing
  methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline
  or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

  (2) A system may write its  own educational statement, but only in consultation with the State.

                                                                                              101

-------

-------
    Implementing The Lead Public Education Provision of the LCR:
              A Guide for Community Water Systems
              Appendix E
      Lead and Copper CWS
Public Education Fact Sheet

-------
vvEFA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
     Lead and Copper Rule:  Public  Education & Other  Public
  Information  Requirements  for Community Water Systems
  Public Education Requirements
  Utilities must ensure that water from the customers tap does not exceed the action level for lead in drinking water (15
  ppb) in at least 90 percent of the homes sampled. If you have a lead action level exceedance you must complete the
  following steps to comply with the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) public education (PE) requirements.

  Section 141.85 of the LCR regulations contains specific requirements regarding the content and delivery of your public
  education  program. To learn more about the revisions to the public education requirements, refer to Implementing the
  Lead Public Education Provision of the Lead and Copper Rule: A Guide for Community Water Systems, Section 1, page 5.


  Step 1:  Develop the content of your written public  education  materials.	

  The following information must be included in your PE materials. The text in italics is mandatory and must be
  included as written. Headings in bold must be addressed, but can be customized. Fill-in-the-blank templates (in
  English and Spanish) are available at: www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr/compliancehelp.html. More information can
  be found in Implementing the Lead Public Education Provision of the Lead and Copper Rule: A Guide
 for Community Water Systems; Section 1, page 8: Required Content of Public Education Materials and
  Appendix B: Public Education templates.
  Informational
  Statement
  * Mandatory language
            Important Information about Lead in Your Drinking Water
            [Insert name of water system] found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes/
            buildings. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young
            children. Please read this information closely to see what you can do to reduce lead in your
            drinking water.
  Health Effects of
  Lead
  * Mandatory language
            Lead can cause serious health problems if too much enters your body from drinking water
            or other sources. It can cause damage to the brain and kidneys, and can interfere with the
            production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your body. The greatest risk of
            lead exposure is to infants, young children, and pregnant women. Scientists have linked the
            effects of lead on the brain with lowered IQ in children. Adults with kidney problems and high
            blood pressure  can be affected by low levels of lead more than healthy adults. Lead is stored
            in the bones and it can be released later in life. During pregnancy, the child receives lead from
            the mother's bones, which may affect brain development.
  Sources of Lead
  * Can be customized;
  Example language
            Lead is a common metal found in the environment. The main sources of lead exposure
            are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust or soil, and some plumbing materials.
            In addition, lead can be found in certain types of pottery, pewter, brass fixtures, food, and
            cosmetics. Other sources include exposure in the work place and exposure from certain
            hobbies (lead can be carried on clothing or shoes). Brass faucets, fittings, and valves, including
            those advertised as "lead-free," may contribute lead to drinking water. EPA estimates that 10
            to 20 percent of a person's potential exposure to lead  may come from drinking water. Infants
            who consume mostly formula mixed with lead-containing water can receive 40 to 60 percent
            of their exposure to lead from drinking water.
Office of Water (4606M)
                    EPA816-F-08-019
June 2008
www.epa.gov/safewater/

-------
            United States
            Environmental Protection
            Agency
  Table 1. Required Content and Language for Public Education Materials (continued)
  Section
Language
  Steps you can take
  to reduce your
  exposure to lead in
  your water
  * Can be customized;
  Example language
  1. Run your water to flush out lead. Run water for 15 - 30 seconds to flush lead from
  interior plumbing [or insert a different flushing time if your system has representative data
  indicating a different flushing time would better reduce lead exposure in your community
  and if the Primacy Agency approves the wording] or until it becomes cold or reaches a
  steady temperature before using it for drinking or cooking, if it hasn't been used for several
  hours.  [It is likely that systems with lead service lines will need to collect data to determine
  the appropriate flushing time for lead service lines.]1

  2. Use cold water for cooking and preparing baby formula. Lead dissolves more easily
  into hot water.

  3. Do not boil water to remove lead. Boiling water will  not reduce lead.

  4. Look for alternative sources or treatment of water. You may want to consider
  purchasing bottled water or a water filter. Read the package to be sure the filter is
  approved to reduce lead or contact  NSF International at 800-NSF-8010 or.www.nsf.org for
  information on performance standards for water filters.

  5. Test your water for lead. Call us at [insert phone number for your water system] to find
  out how to get your water tested for lead. [Include information on your water system's
  testing program. For example, do you provide free testing? Are there labs in your area that
  are certified to do lead in water testing?)

  6. Get your child's blood tested. Contact your local health department or healthcare
  provider to find out how you can get your child tested for lead, if you are concerned about
  exposure.

  7. Identify and replace plumbing fixtures containing lead. Brass faucets, fittings, and
  valves, including those advertised as "lead-free," may contribute lead to drinking water. The
  law currently allows end-use brass fixtures, such as faucets, with up to 8% lead to be labeled
  as "lead free." Visit the NSF Web site at www.nsf.org to learn more about lead-containing
  plumbing fixtures.
  What happened?
  What is being
  done?
  * Can be customized;
  Example language
[Insert information about how and when the exceedance was discovered in your community
and provide information on the source(s) of lead in the drinking water, if known.]

[Insert information about what your system is doing to reduce lead levels in homes in your
community]
  For More
  Information
  * Mandatory language
Call us at [Insert Number] or (if applicable) visit our Web site at [insert Web site Here]. For
more information on reducing lead exposure around your home/building and the health
effects of lead, visit EPA's Web site at www.epa.gov/lead, or contact your health care provider.

[We recommend  you include the name of your system and the date that the information is
being distributed, along with the state water system ID, somewhere on the notice.]
'The bracketed language does not need to be included, as worded, in your materials. It is designed to alert systems that, where
applicable, lead service lines might affect the flushing time.
              Different Language Communities. If significant proportions of the population in your community speak languages
              other than English, the PE materials must contain information in the appropriate language(s) regarding the importance
              of the notice or a contact where persons can obtain a translation or assistance.
Office of Water (4606M)
         EPA816-F-08-019
June 2008
www.epa.gov/safewater/

-------
v-xEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
                 Step 2: Get State approval.
                   You must submit all written PE materials to the Primacy Agency prior to delivery. The Primacy
                    Agency may require you to obtain approval of PE materials prior to delivery.
Step 3: Deliver your public education materials.	

                   Timing: All public education materials must be delivered within 60 days after
                   the end of the monitoring period in which the exceedance occurred and repeated
                    once every 12 months, EXCEPT providing information on or in each water bill,
                    which must be included in each billing cycle (no less than quarterly or the Primacy
                     Agency can approve a separate mailing) and two press releases per 12 month
                  period for as long as you exceed the lead action level.  Also, the Primacy Agency
can allow activities to extend beyond the 60-day requirement if needed for implementation purposes;
however, this extension must be approved in writing in advance of the 60-day deadline. Note: This extension is only
appropriate if the system has initiated public education activities prior to the end of the 60-day deadline.

For more information go to Implementing the Lead Public Education Provision of the Lead and Copper Rule: A Guide for
Community Water Systems; Section 1, page 9: Required Methods of Delivery for Community Water Systems.
  Table 2. Required Methods of Delivery for Small and Large Community Water Systems
  Small (<3,300 customers)
                                              Large (>3,300 customers)
  Deliver printed materials (pamphlets, brochures, posters)
  to all bill paying customers
                                              Deliver printed materials (pamphlets, brochures, posters)
                                              to all bill paying customers
  Deliver public education materials to the following
  facilities and organizations that are served by the system
  that are most likely to be visited regularly by pregnant
  women and children:
  1. Local public health agencies1
  2. Public and private schools or school boards
  3. Women Infants and Children (WIC) and Head Start
     programs
  4. Public and private hospitals and medical clinics
  5. Pediatricians
  6. Family planning clinics
  7. Local welfare agencies
                                              Deliver public education materials to the following
                                              organizations that are located within your service area,
                                              along with a cover letter encouraging distribution to all
                                              potentially affected customers or users:
                                              1. Local public health agencies
                                              2. Public and private schools or school boards
                                              3. Women Infants and Children (WIC) and Head Start
                                              programs
                                              4. Public and private hospitals and medical clinics
                                              5. Pediatricians
                                              6. Family planning clinics
                                              7. Local welfare agencies
'If you do not have a local public health agency, you should contact your State Health Department.
   Tip: To obtain a list of organizations in your area, contact your local Public Health Agency. Additional informational resources of
   associations and licensing agencies of these organizations may be found in Implementing the Public Education Provision of the
   Lead and Copper Rule: A Guide for Community Water Systems; Appendix C.
             Systems are required to contact their local Public Health Agencies directly (either in person or by phone).
Office of Water (4606M)
                      EPA816-F-08-019
June 2008
www.epa.gov/safewater/

-------
S-/EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Table 2. Required Methods of Delivery for Small and Large Community Water Systems (continued)
Small (< 3,300 customers)
Make a good faith effort to locate the following
organizations within the service area and deliver materials
that meet the content requirements, along with an
informational notice that encourages distribution to all
potentially affected customers or users. The good faith
effort to contact at-risk customers may include requesting
a specific contact list of the organizations from the local
Public Health Agencies, even if the agencies are not
located within the water system service area:2
1 . Licensed childcare centers
2. Public and private preschools
3. Obstetricians-Gynecologists and Midwives
Provide information on or in each water bill (no less than
quarterly or Primacy Agency can approve a separate
mailing)3'4
Submit press release to newspaper, television, and radio
stations5
Conduct one (1 ) activity from one of the following
general categories:67
• Public Service Announcements
• Paid Advertisements
• Display Information in Public Areas
• Email to Customers
• Public Meetings
• Delivery to Every Household
• Provide Materials Directly to Multi-family Homes
• Other Methods Approved by the Primacy Agency

Large (>3,300 customers)
Make a good faith effort to locate the following
organizations within the service area and deliver materials
that meet the content requirements, along with an
informational notice that encourages distribution to all
potentially affected customers or users. The good faith
effort to contact at-risk customers may include requesting
a specific contact list of the organizations from the local
Public Health Agencies, even if the agencies are not
located within the water system service area:2
1 . Licensed childcare centers
2. Public and private pre-schools
3. Obstetricians-Gynecologists and Midwives
Provide information on or in each water bill (no less than
quarterly or Primacy Agency can approve a separate
mailing)34
Submit press release to newspaper, television, and radio
stations
Conduct three (3) activities from one, two, or three of the
following general categories:67 8
• Public Service Announcements
• Paid Advertisements
• Display Information in Public Areas
• Email to Customers
• Public Meetings
• Delivery to Every Household
• Provide Materials Directly to Multi-family Homes
• Other Methods Approved by the Primacy Agency
Post material on a publicly accessible Web site (for
systems serving > 100,000 individuals)
2For further clarification of a good faith effort, you should consult with your Primacy Agency.
3Primacy Agency may allow a separate mailing if you cannot place information on the water bill.
4You may add additional pages (e.g., public education brochure) to the Consumer Confidence Report if timing is appropriate.
However, it may be rare that timing will coincide, given that the CCR must contain compliance data collected in the previous
calendar year and the report must be provided to consumers no later than July 1 (i.e., the report issued by July 1, 2007 contains
compliance data collected in calendar year 2006).
'Primacy Agency may waive this requirement as long as you distribute notices to every household served by your system.
6You should discuss/verify with your Primacy Agency to ensure fulfillment of all requirements.
7Appendix B of Implementing the Lead Public Education Provision of the Lead and Copper Rule: A Guide for Community Water Systems
contains customizable templates for PE materials that may be used to meet these requirements.
8For example, you may do 3 PSAs or 3 public meetings if the Primacy Agency allows.
Office of Water (4606M)
                       EPA816-F-08-019
June 2008
www.epa.gov/safewater/

-------
           United States
           Environmental Protection
           Agency
  Table 3. Other Public Information Requirements - Regardless of An Action Level Exceedance
  Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) Requirements1
  Every report must include the following lead-specific information: If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious
  health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials
  and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. [NAME OF UTILITY] is responsible for providing high
  quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. 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 before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to
  have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize
  exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.
  A system may write its own statement in consultation with the Primacy Agency.
  Notification of Results - Reporting Requirements2
  Must provide a consumer notice of lead tap water monitoring results to all persons served at the tap from which the
  sample was taken.
  Must provide consumer notice as soon as practical, but no later than 30 days after system learns of tap monitoring
  results.
  Must include the following information: results of lead tap water monitoring, an explanation of the health effects of
  lead (you may use the health effects language found in Table 1), list steps consumers can take to reduce exposure to
  lead in drinking water, and utility contact information. This notice must also include the maximum contaminant level
  goal (MCLG) for lead and the action level (AL) for lead and the following definitions for these two terms:

    The MCLG for lead is zero and the action level is 15ppb. The MCLG is the level of a contaminant in drinking water
    below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.  The action level
    is the concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water
    system must follow.
  Must be provided to all persons served at the site by mail or other methods (subject to approval by the Primacy Agency).
  This includes those who do not receive a water bill.
'CWSs in States where EPA is the Primacy Agency or have adopted the Revisions by December 2008 must begin including the lead
informational statement in CCRs that are due to consumers by July 1, 2009 (i.e. the 2008 CCR). Otherwise, CWSs must begin to
include this information in the 2009 CCR.
2Consumer Notification of Results templates are available in Appendix B of Implementing the Lead Public Education Provision of the
Lead and Copper Rule: A Guide for Community Water Systems.


For Additional Information:
   Implementing the Lead Public Education Provision of the Lead and Copper Rule: A Guide for Community Water Systems
   (EPA 816-R-08-007, June 2008).
   EPA's Website on Lead in Drinking Water - Lead and Copper Rule: www.epa.gov/safewater/lcrmr

   EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline: (800) 426-4791
   Your Primacy Agency
     Disclaimer: This document is designed for Community Water Systems; the guidance contained in this document does not
     substitute for provisions or regulations, nor is it a regulation itself. Thus, it does not impose legally-binding requirements on
     EPA, States, or the regulated community, and may not apply to a particular situation based upon the circumstances.
Office of Water (4606M)
EPA816-F-08-019
June 2008
www.epa.gov/safewater/

-------

-------
Recycled/Recyclable • Printed on 100% Postconsumer, Process Chlorine Free Recycled Paper

-------