newshead.jpg (15353 bytes)

Harold N. Adel, MD, MPH
Commissioner
Department of Health

Andrew J. Spano
County Executive


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 21, 1999

"Lead Head" The Clown Returns

 
FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact Mary Landrigan

(914) 637-4715
As a reminder to take precautions against lead poisoning, the Westchester County Department of Health is bringing back "Lead Head" the clown. Laden with presents and wisdom about "getting the lead out," "Lead Head" will be making visits on Thursday, June 24, 10:30am at the Health Department’s Yonkers District Office, 20 South Broadway, Yonkers and at 1:30pm at the New Rochelle District Office, 420 North Avenue, New Rochelle; Friday, June 25, 9:30am at the Rye/Port Chester District Office, 111 South Ridge Street, Port Chester;

and Monday, June 28, 1:30pm at the White Plains District Office, 85 Court Street, White Plains.

"In Westchester County, many residential buildings are old and young children can be at high risk for becoming poisoned by the lead dust in their homes," stated Dr. Harold N. Adel, Westchester County Health Commissioner. "The Center for Disease Control recommends that we educate people about the perils of lead poisoning and teach them how to keep lead dust from getting into their children’s bodies. Hence, Lead Head."

HOW TO PREVENT LEAD POISONING

Lead poisoning can be prevented. Here are some tips that "Lead Head" offers:

  1. Get your young children tested for lead, particularly in the first two years of life, even if they seem healthy.
  2. Wash children’s hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often.
  3. Make sure children eat healthy foods that are high in calcium and iron.
  4. Don’t dry vacuum peeling or chipping paint. Instead, regularly wet mop with Simple Green or similar degreasing cleaners.
  5. Regularly clean floors, windowsills and other surfaces. Get down to the level of a one or two year old child and see your home from a "kid’s eye view."

For additional information about lead poisoning prevention, contact the Westchester County Department of Health at (914) 813-5000.

 

 

-30-

return to Press Release main page