EAST LOWNDES #4-HERMAN-VAUGHN Lead Service Line Inventory
About This Water System
EAST LOWNDES #4-HERMAN-VAUGHN serves 5,678 people in Mississippi. The system draws water from groundwater sources.
Lead Service Line Inventory Status
This water system has not yet completed an inventory of lead service lines (LSLs) in its distribution system. Federal law requires all water utilities to inventory their lead service lines and share findings with the public by October 2024.
A lead service line is the pipe that connects the water main in the street to your home's plumbing. If your home was built before 1986—especially before the 1970s—there's a higher chance your service line is lead or galvanized steel, which can leach lead into drinking water.
What You Should Do Now
Even without a completed public inventory, you can take steps to protect your household:
- Test your water. Contact EAST LOWNDES #4-HERMAN-VAUGHN and ask about a free or low-cost lead test. EPA recommends testing if your home was built before 1986 or if you're unsure about your service line material.
- Know your home's age and plumbing. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk. If you own your home, records from your purchase or previous inspections may note the service line material.
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking. Lead is more likely to leach into hot water. Let cold water run for 30 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking.
- Keep an eye on updates. The utility should publish its completed inventory publicly. Check the water system's website or call for announcements.
If you have concerns about lead in your water or your child's health, contact your pediatrician or the CDC's National Center for Environmental Health.
Next Steps for Residents
- Call or email EAST LOWNDES #4-HERMAN-VAUGHN to request a free lead water test and ask when the inventory will be public.
- If your home was built before 1986, consider testing your tap water now rather than waiting.
- Review your home's purchase or inspection documents for notes on service line material.
- If lead is found in your water, ask the utility about free or discounted service line replacement programs.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my service line is lead?
The only way to know for certain is to have it inspected by a plumber or test your water for lead. Homes built before 1986 are at higher risk. You can also contact your water utility and ask if they have records of your service line material.
Is it safe to drink tap water from this system?
EAST LOWNDES #4-HERMAN-VAUGHN is required to test and report on water quality. If you're concerned about lead specifically, request a free lead test from the utility. Using cold water and letting the tap run for 30 seconds before drinking can also reduce lead exposure.
When will the water system finish its lead service line inventory?
Federal law requires completion by October 2024. Contact EAST LOWNDES #4-HERMAN-VAUGHN directly to ask for their timeline and when results will be available to the public.
What should I do if lead is found in my water?
If your water tests positive for lead, contact your utility about treatment options and service line replacement programs. You can also speak with your pediatrician or call the CDC for guidance on reducing exposure in your home.