Lead dangers in your home: How Phoenix is making homes safer

Free lead tests protect Phoenix families! Lead Safe PHX offers home inspections and essential resources to shield your loved ones from hidden health hazards.

Every year, thousands of children face potential health risks from an invisible threat lurking in older homes—lead paint. In Phoenix, a citywide initiative called Lead Safe PHX is working to combat this danger and protect vulnerable residents, particularly young children and pregnant women.

Understanding the lead hazard in Phoenix homes

Lead, while naturally occurring, poses significant health risks when found in aging house paint. As paint deteriorates, it creates hazardous dust and chips that can be inadvertently ingested or inhaled. Children under 6 years old are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure, which can result in developmental delays, behavioral issues, hearing problems, headaches, and potential brain damage.

Free testing and remediation through Lead Safe PHX

The City of Phoenix’s Neighborhood Services Department has launched a comprehensive program to identify and address lead hazards in residential properties. Through Lead Safe PHX, eligible residents can receive:
– Free lead testing for their homes
– Professional assessment of potential lead hazards
– Assistance with lead removal and remediation
– Resources for maintaining a lead-safe environment

Who qualifies for the program?

Phoenix residents may be eligible for free services if they meet two key criteria:
– Their home was built before 1978
– The household includes either a child under age 6 or a pregnant woman

Taking action against lead exposure

Residents who believe their home might contain lead hazards are encouraged to complete a screening form to determine their eligibility. The program represents a proactive approach to community health, offering vital services to protect Phoenix families from lead exposure.

For more information about Lead Safe PHX or to begin the screening process, residents can visit phoenix.gov/leadsafe. The program is part of the city’s broader commitment to ensuring safe and healthy living conditions for all Phoenix residents.

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The Copper Courier staff.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.