No lead service lines have been identified in CCWS’ service area, which includes most of unincorporated Cobb County and the cities of Acworth, Kennesaw, and Powder Springs. People in Marietta, Smyrna, and Austell should check with the water providers for that area regarding service line materials.

• There is no safe level of lead in drinking water. Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups, especially pregnant people, infants (both formula-fed and breastfed), and young children.
• Some of the health effects on infants and children include decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can also result in new or worsened learning and behavior problems. Children or persons who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy may be at increased risk of these harmful health effects.
• Adults have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney or nervous system problems.
• Contact your health care provider for more information about your risks and testing.

Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode, especially where the water has high acidity or low mineral content that corrodes pipes and fixtures. The most common sources of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures. In homes with lead pipes that connect the home to the water main, also known as lead service lines, these pipes are typically the most significant source of lead in the water.  Lead pipes are more likely to be found in older cities and homes built before 1986.  Among homes without lead service lines, the most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and plumbing with lead solder.

• Learn more about the maximum allowable content of lead in pipes, solder, fittings and fixtures
• Learn more about EPA's regulations to prevent lead in drinking water
• Learn how to Identify Lead Free Certification Marks for Pipes, Fittings, Fixtures, Solder, and Flux Used for Drinking Water

EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule (LCR).

Corrosion is a dissolving or wearing away of metal caused by a chemical reaction between water and your plumbing. A number of factors are involved in the extent to which lead enters the water, including:

• the chemistry of the water (acidity and alkalinity) and the types and amounts of minerals in the water,
• the amount of lead it comes into contact with,
• the temperature of the water,
• the amount of wear in the pipes,
• how long the water stays in pipes, and
• the presence of protective scales or coatings inside the plumbing materials.

One requirement of the LCR is corrosion control treatment to prevent lead and copper from contaminating drinking water. Corrosion control treatment means utilities must make drinking water less corrosive to the materials it comes into contact with on its way to consumers' taps. 

Lead can be found in all parts of our environment.

• Lead in paint
• Lead in soil
• Lead in drinking water
• Lead in foods, cosmetics, and medicines
• Lead in jobs, hobbies, and other activities

Simple steps like keeping your home clean and well-maintained will go a long way in preventing lead exposure. You can lower the chances of exposure to lead in your home, both now and in the future, by taking these steps:

• Inspect and maintain all painted surfaces to prevent paint deterioration.
• Address water damage quickly and completely.
• Keep your home clean and dust-free.
• Clean around painted areas where friction can generate dust, such as doors, windows, and drawers. Wipe these areas with a wet sponge or rag to remove paint chips or dust.
• Use only cold water to prepare food and drinks.
• Flush water outlets used for drinking or food preparation.
• Clean debris out of outlet screens or faucet aerators on a regular basis.
• Wash children's hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often.
• Teach children to wipe and remove their shoes and wash hands after playing outdoors.
• Ensure that your family members eat well-balanced meals. Children with healthy diets absorb less lead. See Lead and a Healthy Diet, What You Can Do to Protect Your Child (PDF) |en español (PDF).
• If you are having home renovation, repairs, or painting done, make sure your contractor is Lead-Safe Certified, and make sure they follow lead-safe work practices (PDF).

https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/parent_checklist3.pdf

• Use only cold water for drinking, cooking and making baby formula. Boiling water does not remove lead from water
• Regularly clean your faucet’s screen (also known as an aerator).
• Consider using a water filter certified to remove lead and know when it’s time to replace the filter.
• Before drinking, flush your pipes by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes.