Get Healthy Carson City: National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week: Protecting families

This week is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, and it’s an important time to raise awareness about the dangers of lead poisoning, especially for young children. Lead poisoning can cause serious health problems, including learning difficulties, behavioral issues, and damage to the brain and nervous system. The good news is that lead poisoning is preventable.

Lead is a toxic metal that was once used in things like paint, pipes and gasoline. While these items are no longer made with lead, many older homes, buildings and even toys may still contain lead. The most common way people, especially children, are exposed to lead is through old, peeling paint in homes built before 1978. Children can breathe in dust from the lead paint or accidentally eat paint chips or dust while playing.

Here’s how you can protect your family from lead poisoning:

• Get your home tested: If you live in a house built before 1978, consider having your home tested for lead, especially if the paint is peeling or chipping.

• Keep it clean: Regularly clean floors, windowsills, and other surfaces where lead dust can collect. Wash your hands and your children’s hands often, especially before eating.

• Check your water: Lead can sometimes be found in older plumbing. Use cold water for drinking and cooking and consider having your water tested.

• Get your kids tested: If you have young children, especially those under the age of 6, ask your doctor about a blood test for lead. Even if your child seems healthy, lead can cause damage that you can’t see right away.

The goal of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is to spread the word about the dangers of lead exposure and to help families take steps to stay safe. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, we can protect our kids and our communities from the harmful effects of lead poisoning. Learn more about lead prevention and receive the latest updates on food recalls by visiting: www.nvclppp.org.

For information about services and programs available to you through Carson City Health and Human Services, go to gethealthycarsoncity.org, or call 775-887-2190. You can also find us at 900 E. Long St., in Carson City, or follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/cchhs, X @CCHealthEd, or Instagram @GetHealthCarsonCity.