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High levels of lead have been discovered in water from faucets in the Kingston City School District. The findings come from recent tests conducted across all school district buildings, revealing that while drinking fountains remain safe, water from various faucets contains lead levels exceeding safe limits. The district has posted the test results on its website, but specific remediation steps have not been detailed.
Lead exposure is particularly harmful to children, affecting brain and central nervous system development. The fluctuating lead levels are attributed to the intermittent use of faucets, allowing lead to leach into the water when it sits in the pipes. According to the Daily Freeman, the district is aware of the issue and is working to address it.
In similar cases, such as in Buffalo, New York, schools have prioritized replacing contaminated fixtures used for drinking and food preparation. Signs have been posted to warn students and staff not to consume water from affected faucets while replacements are scheduled. High lead levels in water can result from old plumbing fixtures, even if the pipes themselves are not made of lead. Investigative Post reports that Buffalo schools have been actively replacing such fixtures to ensure safety.
The Kingston school district's response to the lead issue is crucial to safeguarding the health of its students and staff. Parents and community members are encouraged to stay informed through the district's website and communications. As the district works on a solution, the importance of addressing lead contamination in school water systems remains a priority for public health and safety.