Memphis’ lead crisis
Lead makes us sicker and less safe. So why do leaders overlook it?
The toxin contributes to three of Memphis’ most serious issues — education, health and public safety. But few seem to be paying attention.
Ayden can’t speak. Lead poisoning is probably to blame.
Most children suffer milder effects, but their brains aren’t unscathed.
5 takeaways from our investigation into Shelby County’s lead crisis
Here’s how lead poisoning is making our children sicker and all of us less safe.
Kids in these neighborhoods face the highest risk of lead poisoning
Think older, Blacker and urban
Would removing lead from homes reduce the crime rate?
‘Crime occurs when people are unwell’: Here’s how experts say the toxin affects children’s brains, public safety
Resources
Get your home tested
Do you live in a home built before 1978 and have children under 6 living with you or visiting often? Call the City of Memphis Lead-Safe program at 901-636-5323 or the Shelby County Lead Hazard Control program at 901-222-7605 to see if you qualify for a free inspection — and possible renovation — of your home. To find out when your home was built, go to the Shelby County Assessor of Property website or Realtor.com.
Get your water tested
Experts recommend having your water tested for lead if you have children under 6, especially if you are feeding an infant formula. To have your water tested for free by MLGW, please call 901-320-3962 or email waterlab@mlgw.org.
Get your kids tested
If you have kids under 6 who either live in or regularly visit a home, daycare or preschool built before 1978, please have them tested for lead poisoning. To schedule a free test, call the Shelby County Health Department at 901-222-9582 or contact your child’s pediatrician. If you’re not sure when your home was built, it is usually listed on the Shelby County Assessor of Property website and Realtor.com.
Have kids under 6? Here are 3 ways to protect them from lead
Lead is a dangerous toxin for young children. Kids exposed to lead perform worse in school than their peers. They also face a higher risk of developmental disabilities, mental illnesses and high blood pressure. Unfortunately, lead poisoning remains common in Shelby County. Almost 390 local kids were diagnosed last year.…
What questions do you have about lead?
Email reporter Jacob Steimer and we will try to answer your questions in future stories.
Mailing address
MLK50: Justice Through Journalism
1910 Madison Avenue #2220
Memphis, TN 38104
Follow us
info@mlk50.com
Call or text
901-300-6722