I struggle to find the right word to describe the lead poisoning of Flint, Michigan. “Debacle” is pretty close, but there’s a lightness about it, a humor to it that doesn’t fit the gravity of poisoning and permanently damaging the health and intellect of thousands of children. “Scandal” poses it as a political issue, rather than a humanitarian atrocity. “Crisis” suggests something that something that occurs suddenly and can be suddenly solved.
With it all so fresh in our minds, the news that lead was showing up in the water in Tacoma, and that Seattle Public Utilities was advising residents to run their taps before drinking from them caused some serious freak out.
Unlike Flint, where lead from aging pipes were to blame, in Tacoma and Seattle they believe the problem is restricted to the galvanized steel gooseneck connectors that link the water mains to some houses built between in the 1920’s through 1950’s. For those homes (and they estimate there are around 2,000 of them), they suggest running the tap for a couple minutes before drinking if the water hasn’t been used in the house for more than six hours.
So, dear Wallingford, where so many houses were built in the 1920’s to 1950’s, you’re wondering whether your house is safe? SPU has released a map that will show you what type of connector your house has and (hopefully) help you rest easy. Just zoom in to your home and click the red line linking the water main to your address. As you can see from my map, I’ve got copper, so the only thing I have to worry about is the unquestionably unpalatable taste. Hope you’re in the same boat!
Thanks, Jordan — much obliged! Had no idea this information was available on-line. It confirms that we have plastic water pipes to our house (we had major work done to the property in the late 90s.)
FYI for the people using the map: the position of the “red lines” may not reflect where the water lines actually run under your property. Our connection is on a different street than is shown on the map. I think the placement of your house’s water meter is probably the best indication of location.
Thanks, Jordan, for doing the research on this.
According to the SPU map, my house has no water. Neither does my neighbor’s house. Or anyone else on N 47th Street between Green Lake Way N and Densmore Ave N. What does that mean? That we have lead pipes?? Anyone know the answer?
Water, water everywhere…and not a drop to drink?
It says I have a galvanized iron pipe from 1914, should I be concerned about lead since it’s before 1920?
Very helpful information. So glad this blog did not go away.
Mine says plastic, installed 1921. Does that make sense?
Prepare your estate and make peace with your enemies. The end is near. #thoughtsandprayers