Routine water testing reveals high lead, copper levels in Oakland County

PONTIAC, Mich. – Routine water testing by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy revealed lead and copper levels in homes that exceeded acceptable levels

"The quality of our drinking water is paramount and we stand ready to support our local communities with these and future test results," Oakland County Executive David Coulter said. "Oakland County Health Division is working with communities to help them comply with revised lead rules while also distributing NSF-certified water filters to qualified households and educating the public."

The testing revealed those levels in Birmingham and White Lake Township. Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash said there will be more investigation to determine the source of exposure and education the public.

Water filter kits will be available to Birmingham and White Lake residents at the following locations:

  • Birmingham City Hall, Tuesday from 4 -7 p.m.
  • Lakeland High School in White Lake from 7 -9 p.m.

Officials are asking people to take steps to prevent lead exposure:

  • Flush cold-water pipes by running the water for five minutes
  • Use only water from the cold-water tap for drinking, cooking and making baby formula
  • Install a water filter
  • Do not boil water
  • Use bottled water
  • Clean aerators

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Kayla is a Web Producer for ClickOnDetroit. Before she joined the team in 2018 she worked at WILX in Lansing as a digital producer.