Since 1987, lead has been listed on the Governor's list of chemicals that can cause reproductive harm and birth defects, and since 1992 has been on the list of chemicals known to cause cancer. Exposure to lead occurs chiefly from ingestion, such as eating or putting objects into the mouth, putting young children particularly at risk.
There are no safe levels of lead. Impacts include birth defects, learning disabilities, hearing loss, reduced attention span, and behavioral abnormalities. Teenagers also can suffer adverse effects, which include brain damage, kidney damage, hearing loss, and impaired growth.
On Saturday, February 21, the City Attorney's Office will hold a Lead Toy Exchange at four locations throughout the city. From 12:00 to 4:00 pm, each of these sites will have testers on-site to test toys for lead content. Please visit www.lacity.org/toys to learn about the locations and RSVP.
In addition to toys, the following items will be accepted for testing: childrens costume jewelry, ceramic tea playsets, childrens backpacks and lunch boxes, childrens Halloween costumes and pajamas. For further information on items with which children frequently interact, please visit: http://www.healthytoys.org/product.searchtype.php
Friday, February 20, 2009
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