FLINT, Mich. – Flint residents are encouraged to check their water filters to ensure water cartridges are working and installed properly, according to the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD).
“We want everyone to check their filter to ensure their cartridge is good,” said Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “If you need a new cartridge, don’t hesitate to pick up a new one at a Water Resource Site. Homebound residents should call 2-1-1 to arrange for delivery.”
Individuals are asked to pay close attention to the light on their filters so they know when a cartridge needs to be changed. A red light means the filter should be changed immediately. A green light means the filter is working.
A yellow light means the filter is working, but will need to be changed soon. When the yellow light is on, people should pick up a new filter at a Water Resource Site.
Anyone who needs assistance installing or checking their water filter should call United Way 2-1-1 or 1-844-875-9211. Step-by-step filter installation instructions in English and other languages are available online or at any of the five Water Resource Sites.
To get the most out of water filters:
- Use filtered water for drinking, food preparation, brushing teeth and pets. Unfiltered water may be used for bathing and cleaning. Pregnant woman and children under six years of age should continue to drink only bottled water.
- Always flush water for two to five minutes every day in the “off” position. Once the system has been flushed for two to five minutes, the filter should be turned back on for cooking and drinking.
- Only run cold water through the filter. Hot water will shorten the life of the filter.
- Clean the aerator every week.
Used filters can be dropped off at Water Resource Sites in designated boxes for recycling.
Free water filter cartridges, water filters, bottled water and water testing kits are available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the following locations:
Fire Station #1 (also a recycling site) – 310 East 5th St.
Fire Station #3 – 1525 Martin Luther King Ave.
Fire Station #5 (also a recycling site) – 3402 Western Rd.
Fire Station #6 – 716 West Pierson Rd.
Fire Station #8 (also a recycling site) – 202 East Atherton Rd.
All water filters distributed by the State of Michigan are certified by NSF International for lead reduction. Individuals wishing to verify that a specific filter is NSF-certified can do so via the NSF website.
The State of Michigan continues to coordinate response efforts in partnership with federal agencies, the city of Flint, Genesee County and local community organizations.
Additional information is available at michigan.gov/flintwater, by calling United Way 211 or visiting helpforflint.com.
