Oct 22-28 is Lead Poisoning Prevention Week
Springfield has the highest risk for childhood lead poisoning in Massachusetts.
Find out how you can protect your family!
Mass Lead Regulations to Change in December
In September 2017, the Massachusetts Public Health Council approved amendments to the Commonwealth’s lead regulations lowering blood lead levels which would indicate a dangerous amount of lead or poisoning and making it easier for homeowners to delead their property. These new regulations will make it easier to identify blood lead levels early before children are seriously harmed. In addition, the changes in deleading regulations are designed to help and encourage more homeowners to address lead paint which is in 84% of the homes in Springfield.

Square One and Partners for a Healthier Community Team Up to Prevent Lead Poisoning
In response to the high risk for lead poisoning in Springfield, Partners for a Healthier Community and Square One are teaming up to address childhood lead poisoning prevention. The home visiting initiative will provide education and resources for families with children who have elevated blood lead levels. The Department of Public Health Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program recently announced the award for $60,000 for the two organizations to support this effort.
Get Your Child Tested
Babies as early as nine to 12 months should be tested for lead blood poisoning by their pediatrician and then again at ages 2 and 3.

In December, there will be changes in lead regulations. Here are important changes you should know:

  • The level of concern has dropped to 5.
  • The definition of poisoning has dropped to 10.
  • Any amount of lead is harmful.

Helpful Resources:
Get Your Home Tested
If a house was built before 1978, it's very likely to contain lead paint.

Lead paint can break down over time due to age, poor maintenance, or household repairs. Chipping, peeling flaking or deteriorated lead-based paint creates lead dust, which when ingested or inhaled can cause serious health consequences.

REMEMBER: SANDING OR SCRAPING LEAD PAINT CAN MAKE DANGEROUS DUST AND SHOULD ONLY BE PERFORMED BY A TRAINED PROFESSIONAL .

Find services and resources to address lead paint
Get the Facts!
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Visit Springfield Healthy Homes Collaboration's new Facebook page and like us to stay up-to-date with current news!

Like our page and comment with your name on the following post by this Friday, October 27th for a chance to win a green cleaning kit! Click here for post.
 
Partners for a Healthier Community | 413.794.7600

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