City of Olathe addresses potential high lead levels in water in Olathe neighborhood
April 21st, 2016 by Steve
A report and article by 41 Action News KSHB Kansas City stated:
OLATHE, Kan. – The city said Wednesday they found potential high lead levels in tap water in the Ridgeview South neighborhood, south of Sheridan Street.
The city said the potential is isolated to about 105 customers and only in that neighborhood.
Besides providing bottled water, the city is doing another round of tests of the neighborhood’s tap water.
It’s unknown where the source of the lead is coming from.
“When there is a risk, we’re going let people know and be proactive,” Tim Danneberg, a spokesperson with the City of Olathe said.
He adds the results were from a water quality test that isn’t accurate in detecting lead. That’s why crews handed out test kits and instructions late Tuesday night.
Ultimately the second round of testing will determine whether there is a dangerous amount of lead in the water.
Kara Wilder was putting her 2-year-old daughter to bed when workers knocked on her door letting her know about the situation.
“Lead is harmful and with it being my first child, first thing that sets in panic mode,” Wilder said.
Down the street, at Katerina Armstrong’s house the only one drinking from the tap is Parker, the Shih-Tzu Poodle mix. Armstong who drinks filtered water applauds the city for their actions.
“I’m glad they’re making sure everything is safe and fixing it if need be,” Armstrong said.
Test results are expected to be back in five days. If they do find dangerous levels of lead, the city said has a firm on standby to take care of the problem immediately.
The possible water contamination means neighborhood residents must use bottled water to cook, clean, and shower.
“Taking a shower is a pain, especially not trying to get the water in your eyes,” explained Tracie Kaiser.
Kaiser is a mother of a son with autism. As a precaution, she put signs all around her home this week warning of the lead contamination.
View the full article HERE and the video report here: VIDEO: Harmful effects of lead, how to test for it
Filed under: General, Lead Testing, North American Markets