It's now even easier to be Lead Smart in Broken Hill

The campaign, aimed at reducing the blood lead levels in kids under five years old, features residents of Broken Hill giving their top tips to reduce lead exposure.

Broken Hill Environmental Lead Program Manager Peter Oldsen said the damage done by lead before the age of five had the potential to cause health, learning and behavioural problems.

“With some easy changes, we can all help protect our kids.  

“It really is so simple - regular hand washing, leaving work boots and work clothes outside and keeping homes as dust free as possible.

“Eating the right amount of fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and dairy is also known to reduce lead absorption and lower blood lead levels. There are some great recipes that can be found on the LeadSmart website.”

The LeadSmart campaign uses radio, TV and Facebook advertising, a dedicated website as well as brochures, factsheets, posters, recipe cards, a cookbook and kids educational tools.

The LeadSmart campaign is just one component of the Broken Hill Environmental Lead Program – other focus areas include lead remediation, research and monitoring.

LeadSmart materials were developed in partnership between the EPA, Far West Local Health District, Child and Family Health and Maari Ma Aboriginal Health.

For more information on how to reduce lead exposure, visit www.leadsmart.nsw.gov.au.

Simple ways to be LeadSmart:

• Wash your hands before eating and after being outside
• Keep children away from dust, dirt and soil. A sandpit that you can cover is a great play area
• Wipe down children’s toys and household surfaces regularly
• Eat lots of fresh, healthy food
• Drink tap water, not rainwater
• Check for old, flaking and chipping paint around the home
• Keep young children and pregnant women away from renovations
• Leave shoes, work boots and work clothes outside