Bloomington residents in the 61701 ZIP code can apply for an abatement program that will reduce the hazardous effects of in-home lead poisoning.
Lead-based paint is one of the most hazardous sources of lead exposure for housing units in the United States. Deteriorated lead paint mixed with house dust and soil causes exposure.
About 2.6 million housing units with young children have lead-based paint hazards, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). This toxic metal can cause a range of health problems for children that include damage to the brain and important organs such as kidneys, nerves, and blood. According to a state Lead Surveillance Report in 2017, 1 in 20 children under the age of 6 tested in Bloomington had elevated blood lead levels.
Bloomington residents in the 61761 ZIP code can now apply for the Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction program, from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. The funding will abate lead-based paint in 92 units or dwellings.
Applicants receiving priority will be homes with children with higher lead levels, housing units with children under age 6 or pregnant women, properties with open code violations, and vacant properties.
Applications are available at BloomingtonIL.gov and can be accepted in person or via the internet.
Homes that were built before 1978 are most likely to have lead-based paint because paint peels overtime that causes lead-paint chips and dust, especially if not painted over. Any paint seen as peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, damaged, or damp needs immediate attention.
Although children who are lead-poisoned may not show any signs, symptoms can include:
- Headaches
- Stomachaches
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Irritability
Cleanliness is important to avoid exposure, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, like frequently washing your hands and wiping down toys, flat surfaces, and other areas to remove dust.
