MPS lead hazards: LaFollette School cleared after stabilization work
LaFollette School
MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Health Department cleared LaFollette School of lead risks, Milwaukee Public Schools announced Wednesday.
LaFollette School
The backstory:
LaFollette School was temporarily closed on March 17. Crews cleaned, conducted lead stabilization work and performed renovations.
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MPS said no children were identified as having elevated blood lead levels in connection to lead at the school.
What's next:
While the school located near 9th and Ring has been declared safe for occupancy, students will continue to attend class at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Lifelong Learning for the rest of the school year. The last day is June 13.
So far, MPS said the city's health department has determined seven schools are cleared of lead dangers. The district is working toward eliminating all lead dangers from schools built before 1978 by the end of this calendar year.
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How to limit exposure
What you can do:
Health officials said wet dusting and mopping at home at least twice a week can minimize the risk of lead exposure. Children should wash their hands with soap and water, especially before meals and after play.
If you have or suspect you may have lead pipes, run faucets on cold for three minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. Residents should also cover or block lead hazards, like chipping paint, and keep children away from those areas.
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Diets rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C can help reduce lead absorption, the health department said.
For additional resources and educational materials, as well as general information on how to keep your child and home lead-safe, visit the Milwaukee Health Department's website, or call the MHD Lead Program at 414-286-2165.
The Source: Information in this report is from Milwaukee Public Schools.