MAYVILLE, NY – Lead can cause serious health problems, especially in young children. In Chautauqua County, lead paint in older homes is the number one source of lead exposure. Many homes in our county were built before 1980, when lead paint was banned for use in homes. Knowing how to find and safely fix lead hazards helps protect children and families from harm.
This year's message, Step Up and Step Out, encourages residents to take action:
- Step Up by learning about lead hazards, testing homes for lead-based paint and getting children tested for lead.
- Step Out by taking action to address lead hazards and make homes safer.
“Lead poisoning is preventable, and protecting children starts with knowing where lead hazards may be found,” said Lacey Wilson, Chautauqua County Public Health Director. “We encourage families, landlords and community members to take a step up by learning about lead and a step out by taking action to make homes safer.”
Step Up. Step Out. Spread the Word.
To help raise awareness and share resources, community partners will be Stepping Out for Lead Poisoning Prevention by visiting neighborhoods throughout the week, distributing door hangers that outline five simple steps families can take to prevent lead poisoning.
Five Steps to Protect Kids from Lead Poisoning:
- Test your home for lead – Call the Chautauqua County Health Department at 716-661-8243 for a free lead inspection. Homes built before 1978 are at highest risk.
- Wash hands often, especially before eating.
- Clean surfaces and toys regularly using wet wipes to minimize lead dust exposure.
- Feed children a healthy diet rich in iron, calcium, and vitamin C, which can help reduce the body’s absorption of lead.
- Get your child tested at ages 1 and 2 – A blood test is the only way to know if a child has been exposed to lead.
If your organization would like to participate in the door hanger distribution initiative, please stop by the Health Department’s Jamestown Office located at Jamestown City Hall, 3rd Floor, 200 E 3rd St, Jamestown, NY 14701 or call 716-661-8243.
Free Home Inspections Available
The Chautauqua County Health Department offers free lead-based paint inspections for qualifying homes built before 1980. These inspections can help identify lead hazards so they can be safely addressed before they cause harm.
The Health Department also works with families, property owners and community partners to connect residents with lead testing, education and resources.
Lead poisoning often has no obvious symptoms, which is why testing is important. Children who are exposed to lead can experience effects on learning, behavior and development. Preventing exposure before it happens is the best way to protect children's health.
“Everyone has a role to play in preventing lead exposure,” Wilson said. “Whether you are a parent, homeowner, landlord, tenant or community member, taking one step can make a big difference.”
Residents can learn more about lead poisoning prevention, available resources, and schedule a home inspection by visiting HealthyCHQ.com/Lead or calling the Chautauqua County Health Department at 716-661-8243.
About Chautauqua County Health Department - The Chautauqua County Health Department is the leading Public Health organization in Chautauqua County dedicated to the support of the community’s health. The Health Department takes innovative approaches to provide technical assistance to partner organizations, and offers various programs and services in order to help prevent disease, protect the public’s health and promote our community’s overall health and wellness. For more information visit www.HealthyCHQ.com.
