Advice to Flint Residents
Important Resources
To get your water tested for free
Email flintwater@cityofflint.com or call the Flint Water Plant: 810-787-6537
For free filters and home water testing kits
Please see our fact sheets or call EPA's local Flint hotline: 810-434-5122
Questions about safe water
Email flintwater@epa.gov
Call EPA's hotline: 810-434-5122
Health questions (including skin rashes or blood tests)
Rashes: You can contact your primary
care provider, or call 2-1-1
Blood tests: You can contact your primary
care provider, or call 810-257-3833
Appearance or odor of your water
Call Flint Water Plant: 810-787-6537
Cleaning Faucet Aerators
Many taps have an aerator as part of the faucet assembly. Aerator screens are not intended to remove contaminants in the water, but may trap sediment or debris as water passes through the faucet. Lead-bearing sediment may end up in drinking water from physical corrosion of leaded solder and can build up in the aerator over time. EPA recommends Flint residents clean faucet aerators weekly.
Fact Sheet: Keeping Your Home Lead Safe - Clean Your Aerators
How to Use a Faucet-Mounted Water Filter
These are simplified instructions. For complete directions, refer to the owner's manual.
- Both unfiltered and filtered water can run with the filter attached.
- For filtered water, switch the lever so water will flow under the new cartridge.
- The filter also has a screen that should be cleaned weekly.
Video: Water Filter Installation and Maintenance (Spanish)
Video: Water Filter Installation and Maintenance (American Sign Language)
Identifying Lead Service Lines
If the plumbing in your home is accessible, you may be able to inspect your own plumbing. Otherwise, call your water provider or hire a plumber.
Some common situations (click to enlarge images):
Your house might also have a short segment of lead pipe — commonly called a "lead gooseneck" — that connects the water main to the service line. You cannot inspect the gooseneck since it is under the street.
Advice for Residents
Flint residents should continue to use filtered water while the City’s “Fast Start” program to replace lead service lines continues. Make sure your filter is properly certified and installed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal use and care. Residents with health conditions that may limit their use of tap water should talk to their doctor.