Lead in drinking water is an important health issue because of its potential toxic effects, particularly on young children.  Lead does not occur naturally in the MEWS water supply, nor is it a result of the treatment or distribution processes.  In Mayfield, lead in drinking water is most commonly caused by lead-based solder used to join copper piping in home plumbing systems.  When water stands for several hours in plumbing that contains lead, the metal can dissolve or leach into the water. Kentucky has banned the use of solders containing lead.  As a precaution, you can eliminate lead from your drinking water by allowing the water to run for a few minutes before consuming it.