Free Lead Screenings For Kids, Moms In Montclair, Nutley, Verona – Montclair, NJ Patch

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The Montclair Health Department will be hosting a free lead screening event for pregnant women and young children in Montclair, Nutley, Verona and Cedar Grove on Wednesday, Nov. 13.

According to a municipal news release, the event will take place from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the third floor of the Montclair Municipal Building, 205 Claremont Avenue. It’s open to children ages 1 to 6-years-old and pregnant women who reside in Montclair, Nutley, Verona and Cedar Grove. An appointment is required; call 973-509-4970 to schedule.

The screening is offered in partnership with Mountainside Family Practice Group.

According to township officials:

“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 (NJDOH) 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 preschools, schools and doctors’ 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.

“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.”

More resources are available at the township website or the NJDOH lead website.

LEAD EDUCATION EVENTS

The Montclair Health Department will also host a series of educational events in recognition of Lead Poisoning Prevention Week.

Lead-Free Kids for a Healthy Future

When: Thursday, October 17, 11:00 a.m. to Noon
Where: Geyer Family Branch YMCA of Montclair, 159 Glenridge Avenue
Meet with the Montclair Health Department Public Health Nurses

Lead Poisoning Prevention

When: Saturday, October 19: 10:00 a.m. to Noon
Where: Montclair Community Pre-K Fall Harvest Festival, 48 Orange Road
Lead poisoning information provided by Montclair Health Department. Meet with the department’s Public Health Nurses.

Protect your Family from Lead in the Home

When: Thursday, October 24: 10:00 to 11:00
Where: Geyer Family Branch YMCA of Montclair. 159 Glenridge Avenue
Meet with the Montclair Health Department Public Health Nurses.

Call the Montclair Health Department at 973-509-4970 for more information about these events.

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