NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 24, 2025
CONTACT: Dana Kazel, Communications Manager
218-725-5049 (office) • 218-591-2219 (cell)
St. Louis County Public Health launches campaign to raise awareness about lead paint risks in older homes
Springtime can pose added risk for children of being exposed to lead paint. The most common source of lead exposure for children is the dust that comes from cracked, chipped or peeling lead-based paint and tracked contaminated soil. Any home built before 1978 may contain lead paint.
Here's the common scenario: Winter's harsh weather can cause that paint to chip and peel, in particular on window frames and doorways. When it's finally warm enough to open windows and allow fresh air to blow in, the wind can also blow in those paint chips and dust. A small child crawling on the floor can easily get that dust on their hands or toys, which they then put in their mouth.
Exposure to lead can cause serious health problems, especially for children. A very small amount of dust containing lead is all it takes to cause a child’s blood lead level to increase.
To help raise awareness about the risks of lead paint exposure, as well as provide guidance for families living in older homes, St. Louis County Public Health has launched a public awareness campaign called Lead Lessons. The campaign features videos shared on social media, as well as a new web site: Lead-lessons.com
The videos feature local experts, including a scientist, contractor, pediatrician, public health nurse, realtor and more. Each provides important information and perspectives about lead paint, its risks, how to identify, and what to do if your home or apartment has lead paint. In addition to the videos, the website includes a helpful checklist for families, contact information to get assistance, as well as links to resources.
Among the steps to prevent exposure to lead paint, families are advised that when in doubt, if their home was built before 1978, they should assume it has lead paint and take the necessary precautions. This includes covering chipped paint with duct tape, contact paper, or painting over it with safe materials. Additionally, people should clean regularly with dish soap and a damp, disposable rag to reduce lead dust.
Children between the ages of one and two should have a blood test from their pediatrician for lead exposure. This test is quick, easy, and essential for early detection. Adverse health effects can occur at lower concentrations. If lead exposure is confirmed, the St. Louis County Public Health Department will reach out with the next steps.
The videos and website were developed by local design agency Creative Arcade. To learn more, visit Lead-lessons.com or call St. Louis County Public Health at 218-725-5210.
###
|
