Lithium Found In Western Springs Water: Village

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – Western Springs has notified residents that lithium, an unregulated contaminant, has been found in the village's water supply.

The notice, which the village mailed to residents as part of a federal requirement, has been a subject on local social media.

On Monday, Western Springs posted even more information on its website.

In its statement, the village said the EPA continues to assess available information on the health effects of lithium in water.

The village said limited information is available to evaluate health risks for people exposed to lower levels of lithium through drinking water.

The EPA does not currently have a health advisory for lithium in drinking water.

Lithium is a "naturally occurring" metal that has numerous uses, including as a main component of batteries, according to the EPA. It is likely found in a variety of foods, the agency said.

Lithium is also used as a pharmaceutical to treat certain medical conditions.

The village's 2023 Consumer Confidence Report is on its website. It has been updated to include the lithium information.