Every parent wants their child to grow up healthy and strong. Unfortunately, exposure to lead can cause serious health problems, especially in young children.
Is Your Home's Paint a Potential Poison?
If you live in Broome County and your home was built before 1978, it likely contains lead paint. Though banned in 1978, lead paint was commonly used for its vibrant colors and durability. Over time, this paint deteriorates, creating dust that settles on floors, windowsills, porches, and stairs – areas where young children frequently play. Even a tiny amount of lead dust can be harmful, causing serious health problems in children.
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Lead Poisoning: A Silent Threat to Development
Lead poisoning can lead to a range of developmental delays, including stunted growth, speech and hearing problems, hyperactivity, and even seizures. In severe cases, lead poisoning can cause comas and even death. Pregnant women and young children are especially vulnerable.
New York State requires doctors to test children for lead at age 1 year and again at age 2 years.
Protect Your Child: Get Them Tested and Your Home Inspected
Schedule lead poisoning tests for your children at their 1 and 2-year-old well-child visits. The Broome County Health Department monitors all lead tests conducted within the county. If your child's test shows elevated lead levels, the Department will contact you and provide resources to reduce their exposure, including identifying potential lead hazards in your home.
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Free Lead Hazard Inspection and Assistance
The Broome County Health Department offers free lead hazard inspections for any home occupied by children under 6 years old, pregnant women, or anyone spending at least 8 hours per week (including grandparents, babysitters, and daycare providers). If lead hazards are found, their team of experts will work with the property owner to ensure safe and prompt remediation.
Take Action Today!
Protect your children and family from lead poisoning. Contact the Broome County Health Department at 607-778-2847 or fill out the online Healthy Home Safety Check Form. For more information about lead poisoning, visit the Broome County Health Department's website.
This article is sponsored by the Broome County Health Department, a valued sponsor of Macaroni KID Binghamton. We appreciate your support in reviewing our sponsors' articles and hope that their offerings are useful for you and your family. Macaroni KID Binghamton is run by a local mom and this website is supported solely by our local sponsors. If you would like to join our network of family-friendly businesses and connect with local parents in Binghamton, Johnson City, Vestal, Apalachin, Owego, and beyond, please reach out and learn how you can share your services with our readers!
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