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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
DECLARING LEAD POISONING PREVENTION WEEK, OCTOBER 24-30, 2021 IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, lead exposure is especially dangerous to children under the age of 6, and can cause irreversible and life-long health effects, including damage to the nervous system and brain, learning problems and challenges with behavior and social-emotional development, and hearing and speech delays;
WHEREAS, the Cook County Department of Public Health serves more than 200 new children who become exposed to lead in suburban Cook County each year;
WHEREAS, common sources of lead exposure include lead pipes and fixtures; some imported candies, pottery, and makeup; toys; and especially lead dust and chipping and peeling lead-based paint in housing built before 1978;
WHEREAS, almost 70% of housing in suburban Cook County was built before 1978;
WHEREAS, lead poisoning is preventable; the key is to keep children from coming into contact with lead;
WHEREAS, there are simple steps that can be taken to protect all family members from lead-based paint hazards in the home;
WHEREAS, the Cook County Department of Public Health has programs available to assist low- to middle-income renters and homeowners to correct lead-based paint hazards in their housing units;
WHEREAS, education and awareness about the dangers of lead and the availability of grant programs to correct lead hazards can help protect the lives of children living in Cook County;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners declares October 24-30, 2021, as National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in Cook County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the citizens, health department, and government officials of Cook County shall observe this week by sharing information designed to enhance public awareness of lead poisoning prevention and the ways we can protect our families from lead exposure, including participation in Cook County’s Lead Hazard Reduction Grant programs.
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