Lead exposure can harm kids even before symptoms appear — but local health officials say it’s also completely preventable.
The Livingston County Department of Health is joining the national effort to raise awareness during Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, which runs Oct. 19–25. The campaign focuses on educating families about the risks of lead and simple steps they can take to stay safe.
Lead is especially dangerous for children under six and pregnant women. Even low levels can damage a child’s brain and nervous system, slow development, and affect behavior, hearing, and learning.
“Young children who crawl and often put their hands in their mouths are especially vulnerable,” said Rachel Merrick, coordinator of the county’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP). “That kind of behavior can put them at risk if their home environment contains lead dust or deteriorating paint.”
Homes built before 1978 are more likely to contain lead-based paint. To reduce risk, officials recommend cleaning floors and window sills regularly, inspecting old paint and plumbing, and using certified lead-safe practices during renovations.
New York requires children to be tested for lead at ages one and two — a crucial step since most kids with lead poisoning show no visible symptoms.
Livingston County offers free or low-cost lead testing for children under six, along with case management and referrals when elevated levels are found. Residents can call (585) 243-7299 or visit the health department’s website to request a screening.
The department also partners with Genesee County and other nearby communities as part of a federally funded prevention program. This collaboration helps provide services like transportation to testing sites, home inspections, and help with lead hazard removal for low-income families.
The county recently honored Stony Brook Pediatrics and Tri County Family Medicine for their role in promoting early lead testing. Both practices received Certificates of Excellence and more than 500 copies of Happy, Healthy, Lead-Free Me!, a children’s book that helps families learn how to stay safe.
“We want all residents to be aware of the dangers of lead exposure and to know the County is here to help,” Merrick said.
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