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Onondaga County is hosting a series of lead safety events this week to raise awareness about the dangers of lead exposure and lead poisoning. These events aim to educate families, landlords, and contractors on how to protect themselves and others from lead-related hazards.
The first event will take place on Wednesday (October 22) from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Nedrow Volunteer Fire Department on South Salina Street. This event, titled "Leading On LEAD," will be hosted by County Executive Ryan McMahon and County Legislator Richard McCarron. Attendees will learn about home lead inspections, lead repair grant programs, and the New York State Lead Rental Registry. The event will also feature fun activities like games and pumpkin painting for families.
Another event is scheduled for Thursday at the CNY Philanthropy Center's Community Ballroom on East Fayette Street in Syracuse from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. This free resource and networking event is designed for independent contractors and construction companies to learn more about lead safety practices and resources.
Lead exposure, particularly from lead paint in older homes, can cause serious growth, learning, and behavioral problems in children. According to the Onondaga County Health Department, even low levels of blood lead can affect children's physical and cognitive development. The department emphasizes that lead poisoning is entirely preventable by addressing lead at its source and testing for lead to identify at-risk children early.
For more information on lead poisoning prevention in Onondaga County, visit the Onondaga County Health Department's website.