Hidden Dangers: Toxic Lead-Covered Cables Pollute America's Neighborhoods
Toxic lead-covered cables left behind by telecommunications companies, including AT&T, Verizon, and Frontier Communications, have caused lead contamination in soil and water supplies at over four dozen locations, exceeding safety recommendations set by the EPA. Despite being aware of the potential health risks to surrounding communities, telecom companies and regulators have not taken meaningful action to address the issue or monitor the cables. Exposure to lead can have severe consequences for physical and mental development, including damage to the brain and vital organs, behavioral problems, learning disabilities, seizures, and even death.