Today I had a representative from Ontario Clean Water Association come and test my home tap water for lead.
We, along with approximately 100 other households and businesses in my town (total population 700) are supplied with municipally treated well water from a local water treatment plant.
This test is recommended by the provincial government and is free.
Notification and invitation for this testing had been sent out with billing - twice since November, 2007.
Talking to the rep I asked how many others had requested the test and his reply made my jaw drop - 2
Something isn't right here.
Perhaps the test wasn't made publicly known well enough or advertised enough or maybe people just don't read inserts in their utility bills.
I can't believe that people aren't more aware and concerned with issues like this especially with the town's history of poor water quality! That's why we're paying heavily each month for the water treatment plant!
The provincial government needs at least 10 test results for statistical purposes and for the project to be documented and acted upon - if necessary.
The results of the 2 tests done today will be available in a week and hopefully both will be negative of lead. However, if not, the action taken may not necessarily be action required or needed - due to the small number of participants in the testing.
I have to confirm some facts and figures with the Town Clerk tomorrow and hope to write "Letters to the Editors" to both local newspapers to bring this matter to the attention of my neighbors if I can.
Perhaps they'll be more aware, attentive and apt to notice something in their local paper.
Here's hoping.