Lead Poisoning Prevention

Children and pregnant women living in older homes with chipping, flaking, and peeling paint are at the greatest risk for lead poisoning. Yates County Public Health works to protect children from lead poisoning by doing the following:

  • Providing blood lead screening tests
  • Following up with families whose children need testing
  • Providing case management for children with lead poisoning
  • Providing free lead poisoning prevention education for pregnant women, families, renters, and home owners

Preventing Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning is preventable. Parents, tenants, landlords/homeowners, and contractors all have a role in making our community lead safe. Parents can protect their child with a healthy diet and a lead safe environment. Download a childhood lead poisoning prevention brochure in English (PDF) or Spanish (PDF).

Possible Items with Lead

The ingestion of lead contaminated dust, paint, and soil is the primary cause of childhood lead poisoning. Lead can also be found in the following:

  • Lead glazed or painted pottery
  • Ammunition
  • Fishing sinkers
  • Stained glass solder
  • Batteries
  • Imported items such as 
    • Foods
    • Candy
    • Clothing
    • Toys

(Last updated 5/17/2023)

  1. Sara Christensen, RN, BSN

    Deputy Director

  2. Public Health


    Physical Address
    417 Liberty Street
    Suite 2021
    Penn Yan, NY 14527

    Fax: 315-536-5146