Is water safe to drink in leadbelt?

The Lead Belt is a region in southeast Missouri that has been contaminated with lead from mining and smelting activities. The area has been designated as a Superfund site by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA has set a maximum contamination level (MCL) for lead in drinking water of 15 parts per billion (ppb). However, some studies have found that even low levels of lead can have harmful effects on children.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) recommends that children under the age of 6 not drink water that contains more than 1 ppb of lead. The DHSS also recommends that pregnant women and women of childbearing age not drink water that contains more than 5 ppb of lead.

If you live in the Lead Belt, you should have your water tested for lead. If the lead level in your water is above the MCL, you should take steps to reduce your exposure to lead.

Here are some tips for reducing your exposure to lead in drinking water:

* Use a water filter that is certified to remove lead.

* Flush your water pipes for 30 seconds before using water for drinking or cooking.

* Use cold water for drinking and cooking.

* Avoid using water from hot water taps.

* Avoid drinking water from fountains or public water sources that are not regularly tested for lead.

If you are concerned about lead in your drinking water, you should talk to your doctor or local health department.

Additional information:

* The Lead Belt is located in St. Francois County, Missouri.

* The Lead Belt was designated as a Superfund site in 1983.

* The EPA has spent over $1 billion to clean up the Lead Belt.

* The DHSS recommends that children under the age of 6 not drink water that contains more than 1 ppb of lead.

* The DHSS also recommends that pregnant women and women of childbearing age not drink water that contains more than 5 ppb of lead.