Rockland County Approves $1.9 Million for Lead Poisoning Prevention

Rockland County Executive Ed Day signed a resolution approving a New York State Department of Health $1,933,000 grant for lead poisoning prevention programs in Rockland.

Lead is a naturally occurring element found in many places. Lead is toxic to the human body. Lead poisoning is the #1 environmental health concern for children in the U.S.

The most common lead source is cracking, peeling, chipping, or otherwise deteriorating lead-based paint and dust particles. Lead-based paint on windows, doors and other areas where surfaces rub against each other creates dust and may cause lead particles to be released into the environment.

Children between the ages of six months and six years of age are at the highest risk of lead poisoning. Hand-to-mouth behavior is the most common way children ingest lead. Children and adults can also inhale lead particles found in the air.