Lead poisoning has been a hot topic in the news as the water situation unfolds in Flint, Michigan.
But lead poisoning happens across the country, so the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment held an art contest as part of its preparation for Lead Poisoning Awareness Week, and a Durango kindergartner won.
Noah Azulai, who attends Park Elementary School in Lauren Carroll’s class, was a clear winner among voters on the (Air Pollution Control) Division’s Facebook page, said Richard Coffin, an environmental protection specialist with the department. Noah’s design will be featured on reusable tote bags to be distributed at various locations around the state during 2016’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Awareness Week in October.
“Lead poisoning is a preventable childhood health hazard,” Coffin said.
Children under age 6 are most at risk for lead poisoning. Homes should be tested if they were painted before 1978, and remodels should be conducted with lead-safe work practices.
Visit www.colorado.gov/cdphe/leadpaint for more information.
Herald Staff