Elkay

Odorless. Flavorless. Clear. Harmful toxins in school drinking water are sneaky like that. The best way to know water is safe from contaminants like lead is to look for filter lights. While many Elkay stations provide filtered water—not every fountain is filtered—even if it seems new. So, look for filter lights on your school’s drinking stations; and if you don’t see them, demand safe, filtered water for your school.

Why is filtering water so important for kids?

Kids need more water than adults

Their growing bodies are up to 65% water. They need more water because organs like their brains are developing rapidly.
Source: 2023 National Institute of Health

They’re more sensitive to toxins

They’re still growing. Toxins like lead disrupt growth and can cause learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and more.
Source: 2024 Harvard University Center on the Developing Child

Regulations aren’t protecting them

There are no federal regulations requiring schools to test their water for toxins, and 66% of states don’t mandate it either.
Source: National Association of State Boards of Education / ABC News research

See what’s in your water.

Check out this map or enter your school’s zip code to see what chemicals and toxins your child may be drinking every day, if their water isn’t filtered.

How can you tell a water source is safe?

Look for filter lights. Filtered Elkay fountains and filling stations have lights that show when filtration is active and when a filter needs to be changed. Don’t see filter lights that look like this? The unit may not be filtering at all. That means kids could be drinking water contaminated with harmful lead, forever chemicals (PFAS), viruses, and more.

You have the power to protect kids.

Parents and staff can be powerful advocates for safe water in schools—and you don’t have to be a water expert to do it. Elkay has the tools you need to get other parents on board and urge your school officials to take action. Together, we’ll make your voice heard.