BALTIMORE, MD (WBFF) — As National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week continues, the Baltimore City Health Department is bringing free lead testing and resources directly into neighborhoods, urging parents to make sure young children are screened.
The Baltimore City Health Department said it became the first health department in the nation to offer free lead testing in 1951, and said its mission remains to ensure every child in Baltimore grows up free and safe from lead poisoning.
“No level of lead is safe for children,” the health department said. Most children show no obvious symptoms even at elevated levels, and a simple blood test is the only way to know. The department is urging parents to have children tested at age 1 and again at age 2.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in a safe and healthy home,” Mayor Brandon M. Scott said. “The Health Department has led this fight for generations, and our city remains committed to that work. Through strong partnerships, education, and resources that help families and property owners create lead-safe homes, we can create a brighter future for Baltimore.”
During the 2026 National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, which runs from October 25, 2026, through October 31, 2026, the Baltimore City Health Department’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program will provide free lead testing, education and resources in the community.
On Tuesday, October 27, 2026, the department will provide on-site blood lead testing for children ages 1 to 6 years old at the Head Start Center at 800 Poplar Grove St. from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
On Wednesday, October 28, 2026, the department will offer a free lead testing and resource fair from 2 to 6 p.m. at Arlington Elementary School, 3705 W. Rogers Ave. Families can have children tested at the school, connect with more than 20 city, state and community partners, and pick up free giveaways.
“Lead exposure is preventable. Yet, it continues to threaten children in Baltimore City,” Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor said. “Every day, our team works with healthcare providers, environmental inspectors, community organizations, property owners, and families to make homes safer. Getting tested is the first step to protecting our children’s future. This is why BCHD is proactively bringing services and resources into the community to support families.”
For more information about lead testing or the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, visit baltimorecity.gov/health or call 443-984-2460.
This post was originally published on Fox 45 by Sinclair Media Group.
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