Is My Water Safe?

The Shorewood Water Utility performs regular lead testing as required by current regulations. To date, no test results have indicated lead levels which exceed the federal action levels.

Lead is NOT found in our source water, Lake Michigan, and it is NOT found in our treated drinking water. None of Shorewood's water mains are made of lead. Lead exposure from drinking water occurs when water has prolonged contact with lead materials or components which may be present in water service lines or home plumbing. 

Shorewood's water is supplied by Milwaukee Water Works which treats the water with a compound that forms a protective coating inside pipes to control lead dissolving into the water.

In compliance with EPA and WDNR requirements, the Shorewood Water Utility annually publishes a Consumer Confidence Report to help consumers understand where their drinking water comes from. View the most recent report here.

Health effects of lead

Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children can have decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can lead to new learning and behavior problems, or worsen existing learning and behavior problems. The children of women who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy can have increased risk of these negative health effects. Adults can have an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and kidney or nervous system problems.

Check our resources page for steps you can take to reduce your lead exposure and options for testing.