This week is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, and in Chautauqua County, community partners will raise awareness by visiting neighborhoods, distributing door hangers that outline five simple steps families can take to prevent lead poisoning. According to the Chautauqua County Health Department, lead paint in older homes is the number one source of lead exposure, noting that many homes in the county were built before 1980, when lead paint was banned for use in homes. This year's message, "Step Up and Step Out," encourages residents to:
- Learn about lead hazards, test homes for lead-based paint and get children tested for lead.
- Take action to address lead hazards and make homes safer.
Chautauqua County Public Health Director Lacey Wilson says, "Lead poisoning is preventable, and protecting children starts with knowing where lead hazards may be found. 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."
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 East 3rd Street, Jamestown, NY 14701 or call (716) 661-8243.
Residents can learn more about lead poisoning prevention, available resources, and schedule a home inspection by clicking here or calling the Chautauqua County Health Department at (716) 661-8243.
