Lead Resources
The Montclair Health Department in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Health announces a Lead Prevention Education Program.
The Best Way to Prevent Childhood Lead Exposure is to #kNOwLEAD
As lead exposure continues to be an ongoing health challenge, it is important that parents take precautionary measures to keep their children safe and healthy. While exposure can damage a child’s learning and development, it can be prevented. The Montclair Health Department in partnership with New Jersey Department of Health provides resources for parents to stay informed so child lead exposure can be avoided. The NJDOH recently launched the #kNOwLEAD public education campaign, which aims to increase awareness of all lead hazards in homes, schools and on the job, and also educate residents on what they can do to prevent exposure and safeguard their child’s health.
The education campaign includes outreach about lead exposure to Pre Schools, Schools and Doctor offices. Lead can disrupt the normal growth and development of a child’s brain and central nervous system. While lead paint lead paint in homes built before 1978 remains the largest contributor to elevated blood lead levels in children, there are many different lead exposure sources, including water from leaded pipes and imported toys, candy, spices, jewelry, cosmetics, herbal remedies, and pottery.
Parents should ensure their child is tested for lead exposure at a pediatrician’s office at ages 1 and 2. For uninsured residents, parents can contact the Montclair Health Department or community health centers for free or low cost testing. The campaign builds on the State’s leadership to address childhood lead exposure. New Jersey is one of only 17 states that require universal lead screening of all children at ages 1 and 2. The Montclair Health Department can provide parents with a KNOW THE NUMBER – Blood- Lead Level ( BLL ) Card to assist with monitoring their child’s lead level.
Additionally, the Department of Health is strengthening New Jersey's standard for intervening in cases of potential lead exposure. The Department regulations require earlier intervention when lower levels of lead are detected in a child—from 10 micrograms per deciliter of blood to between 5 and 9 micrograms. This change will enable the Montclair Health Department and medical providers to intervene with education, case management, home visits and other steps, at the earliest possible time.
To learn more, please visit the Department’s lead website at website at www.nj.gov/health/childhoodlead which includes videos in English and Spanish to educate residents about lead exposure and follow the #kNOwLEAD campaign on Facebook and Twitter to get the most current information.
For more information please call the Montclair Health Department at 973-509-4970 or view the materials below.
Montclair Health Department's Guide to Childhood Lead Poisoning(PPTX, 7MB)
Montclair Health Department's Tips for Lead Safe Toys(PDF, 790KB)
