During Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, which runs from October 19 to 25, Westchester County officials are encouraging families, property owners, and managers to take steps to protect children from lead exposure.
County Executive Ken Jenkins stated, “Lead exposure is entirely preventable, yet it continues to place children at risk. When you rent, buy or renovate a home—especially one built before 1978—it’s vital to take precautions to prevent lead paint exposure. Peeling, chipping or cracked paint can create hazardous dust. In older homes, regularly wet-cleaning window sills and floors can reduce the danger, since older painted window sashes create dust that easily gets onto little hands—and lead dust has a sweet taste that can attract children.”
Lead is recognized as a toxic metal that can cause permanent health problems in children, including learning and behavioral issues as well as cognitive impairment.
State law in New York requires children to be tested for lead at ages one and two, with yearly risk assessments until age six.
Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler stressed the need for testing. “There is no safe level of lead, and the health effects can be devastating. Parents should ask their child’s healthcare provider about testing. If you are pregnant or have young children and are concerned that your home may contain lead-based paint, call the Health Department at 914-813-5240. Our team can help identify lead hazards, reduce exposure, and, if needed, assist families in relocating to a safer environment.”
Amler also noted, “The most common source of lead poisoning is chipped or peeling paint. Less often, exposure can come from candy, toys, pottery, cosmetics or folk remedies. Protecting children requires collaboration between families, landlords and the Health Department.”
Between September 2024 and September 2025, 128 children in Westchester were identified with new lead exposures. This number has decreased from 184 in the previous year. The County Health Department is currently monitoring 236 children for lead exposure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 500,000 children nationwide between ages 1 and 5 have elevated blood lead levels.
The Westchester County Health Department’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program provides support for families and pregnant women.
Educational videos on preventing lead exposure are available in both English and Spanish.
