How to communicate about lead in drinking water
We know communicating about the impacts of lead and how municipalities are addressing the problem is critical. We frequently hear from municipalities that lose public trust because of a failure to get in front of a water contamination crises. Getting the communications right to start with is key.
Entries in this category should help answer the following questions:
What design tools and visualizations could successfully give water consumers useful, actionable information on lead violations, lead sampling results, lead service line replacement status updates, or health information on lead in drinking water?
How to present the information in a clear, accessible format that considers:
Multiple languages
Reading level (ideally, 7-8th grade reading level)
Meeting the customer where they are at with either electronic or paper materials
Submissions can be:
Sample customer communications (print, pamphlets, websites)
Data visualizations
Everyone should be able to quickly and easily determine whether the water in their tap is safe to drink. We can create more consumer-friendly communications that help achieve this goal.
Key elements.
The letter on the left was received by colleague and could have very easily been tossed, even though the city is saying they could pay for lead pipe removal. We need communications that:
Center accessible communication and language justice
Include graphic and engaging elements
Include clear guidance about what is going on
Interactive visuals or web materials, as well as print.