Public health advisory issued at Cairo apartment complex after water tests find lead
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CAIRO, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A public health advisory has been issued at The Woodlands at Cairo Apartments after lead and copper were tested in the drinking water. According to the county, residents should refrain from drinking from the tap.
According to the apartment complex, on May 21 about 10 water samples were collected by the New York State Department of Health Oneonta District Office and determined that more than 10 percent of the samples exceeded the action level, or level of effectiveness of the corrosion control treatment in the water, for lead and copper.
The complex said the potential source of the lead was from lead solder joints that connect the copper water pipes in the buildings. However, the DOH is investigating the cause.
In response, the Woodlands at Cairo Apartments is required to submit a proposal for treatment by October 31 as well as conduct additional lead and water quality tests of the water system and increase lead monitoring to determine how bad the issue is.
According to the public health advisory, a boil water advisory has not been issued since it does not remove lead or copper in water. Instead, the advisory is asking residents with children, pregnant woman and those with Wilson's Disease, to drink from bottled water or use a water filter.
The apartment complex is urging residents to take these steps:
- Use a water filter
- Clean the aerator
- Use cold water for drinking, cooking and making baby formula
- Run your water
For updates on the advisory, visit the Greene County Public Health Department's website or call (518) 719-3600. More information on lead in water can be found on the DOH website.