As reports of lead in drinking water draw concern across the country, Saint John’s own utility is offering peace of mind.
According to a release from the city, the quality of the drinking water in Saint John exceeds Health Canada Guidelines for consumption.
Brent McGovern with Saint John Water explains Saint John’s old lead pipes were replaced in the early 1990’s, thanks to a “proactive” municipal government.
“It’s not to say that we don’t have any lead services in the city. If (you) have a home that’s older that 1986, then there’s a likelihood that the solder that is holding the copper plumbing together could have lead in it,” he said.
McGovern says there are also no known publicly-owned lead water services.
“In Saint John, we’re fortunate that all of the lead that we know of—and we have done exhaustive researches of our records—has all been replaced with copper services over the years,” he said.
He says when lead pipes are found, the homeowner and Public Health are notified, and the pipe is replaced.
Together, let's get the lead out!
This is an excellent video from the @awwa on how to protect yourself & your family from lead in your drinking water. If you suspect you may have lead services in your home, Saint John Water offers customers free testing. https://t.co/wKEM7GnXuP— City of Saint John (@cityofsaintjohn) November 8, 2019
The city also regularly and extensively tests municipal water, and posts results online each quarter.
McGovern says there are a few precautions you can take if you’re concerned about lead in your water.
He says make sure new faucet fixtures are labelled as lead free, as some brass products may have lead in them.
“We’d also encourage people to clean out their aerators or faucet aerators, keep those clean. If after doing all of that citizens have any questions they should not hesitate to call us,” he said.
Those who are still concerned can have their water tested for free by contacting Saint John Water.
