National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is Oct. 20-26, and the Chautauqua County Health Department (CCHD) is joining with the Healthy @ Home CHQ Coalition and other community partners to ‘Take Steps for Lead Free Kids’ by visiting older homes in Chautauqua County to share five steps to protect children from lead poisoning.

The information will be shared via a door hanger left for residents.

“I want to thank our CCHD Lead Poisoning Prevention Team for their tireless work to bring awareness to the dangers of lead paint exposure to children,” said Lacey Wilson, Chautauqua County public health director. “There is much work to be done in order to remediate lead paint hazards from homes in Chautauqua County. The Healthy @ Home CHQ Coalition partners provide the county with a combined systematic approach to tackle this important matter and capitalize on the great work that is already being done. We truly could not accomplish these goals without our community partners.”

STEPS TO PREVENT LEAD POISONING IN HOMES

– Test homes by calling the Health Department at 716-753-4489 for a free home inspection. Homes built before 1978 likely contain lead paint.

– Wash hands often, especially before eating; and

– Wet wipe surfaces and wash toys often to help prevent lead dust from getting on a child’s hands and in their mouth.

– Feed kids healthy foods rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C. The nutrients can help reduce the body’s absorption of lead. Providing a healthy diet can act as a preventative measure against lead poisoning.

– Test children at ages 1 and 2. Ask your doctor about testing options. The effects caused by lead poisoning generally don’t show up right away, but can negatively impact a child the rest of their life. A blood lead test is the only way to know if a child has been exposed and is recommended at ages one and two.

Lead poisoning can affect anyone, but babies and children under the age of 6 are most at risk because their bodies are still developing. Because their bodies are still growing, their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the harmful effects of lead. Lead exposure can lead to serious harm to children such as brain damage, slowed growth, learning, behavior, hearing and speech problems. Adults exposed to lead may experience a wide range of symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, altered moods or behaviors, forgetfulness and increased blood pressure.

For more information, call Anna Powell at 716-753-4764.