Healthy Kids

KIDS AT HOME

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT HOME Most
people spend over 90% of their time indoors, so
everyone needs a healthy home. There are special reasons
to consider children. Children may be more vulnerable to environmental
exposures than adults because their bodily systems are still developing;
they eat, drink, and breathe more in proportion to their body size; and their
behavior can increase exposure to chemicals and harmful organisms.

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - AIR:

The environment inside your home is affected by the quality of its air. Air can be unhealthy if it has too many pollutants,
Common indoor air pollutants Include cigarette smoke, chemicals, particles, bacteria, and molds, Indoor sources of air
pollutants are furniture, carpet, pets and people. Air pollutants also can enter into homes from outside sources through
cracks or leaks around windows. Air pollutants like mold or carbon monoxide can come from a home's heating,
cooling, and ventilation systems. A well-insulated but poorly ventilated home can increase levels of air pollution inside
the home relative to the outdoor levels.

FIRST AND

SECONDHAND SMOKE:

First and secondhand smoke comes from a burning
cigarette, cigar, or pipe, or from an exhaling smoker.
Secondhand smoke is an asthma trigger; those exposed
to it tend to have more ear and respiratory infections
such as bronchitis, pneumonia, respiratory and ear infec-
tions. EPA estimates that secondhand smoke is respon-
sible for about 3,000 lung cancer deaths each year
among nonsmokers in the U.S. About 800 of these are
estimated to be from exposure to secondhand smoke
at home. Smoking greatly increases the risk of lung and
heart disease. Smoking is associated with increased risk
for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Consider
quitting smoking today!

RADON:

Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, can seep
into your home through cracks or holes in basement
walls and floor. Radon gas is colorless, odorless and
tasteless. Much of the New England region has elevated
levels of radon due to high amounts of granite bedrock.
Risk depends on how much and how long you have
been exposed to radon gas, which is believed to be the
second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Test
your home for radon, Radon test kits are available at
hardware stores. If the level exceeds the standard, have

a professional help you design a plan to vent the gas to
the outside.

CARBON MONOXIDE:

Carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless, tasteless
gas is produced by incomplete burning of fuels such as
gas, oil, propane or wood. Children and people with
anemia or a history of heart or respiratory disease can
be especially sensitive to CO exposure. Depending on
the level and length of exposure, carbon monoxide can
cause shortness of breath, nausea, headaches, dizziness,
impairment of vision and coordination, mental confusion,
fainting or even death. To prevent CO poisoning, make
sure heating systems, gas or propane stoves, ovens, and
dryers are well-vented and in proper working order,
don't idle cars, lawnmowers or gasoline-powered equip-
ment in the garage, and don't use propane heaters or
candles inside tents. Put CO monitors/alarms in sleeping
areas and basements. Use proper fuel in kerosene space
heaters. Utilize an exhaust fan vented to outdoors over
gas stoves. Open flues when fireplaces are in use, and
choose properly sized wood stoves that meet EPA emis-
sion standards. Have a trained professional inspect, clean,
and tune-up central heating system annually.

Smoking greatly increases the risk of lung and heart disease
and smokers and former smokers also are at greater respi-
ratory risk from exposures like asbestos and radon.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & Indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa,gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

&EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT SCHOOL

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

More than 53 million children and 6 million adults in the
U.S. spend their days in elementary and secondary schools.
To help children stay healthy, we must reduce their exposure to environmental
hazards in school environments. Healthy students and teachers enable children
to learn and produce more in the classroom, which improves performance and
achievement later in life.

Bost.

^•od Co-op and the City of Be
RECYCLING CENTER^

449 Cambndge S

I Allston, Massachusetts

GOING GREEN AT SCHOOL:

Many of the more than 120,000 public and private school buildings in the U.S. are old and in poor condition, and may
contain environmental conditions that inhibit learning and pose increased risks to the health of children and school
staff. Effective and motivated staff, administration and students can overcome inadequate facilities and perform at a
high level almost anywhere, but a well-designed facility and an environmentally conscious approach to school operations
can enhance performance and make learning more fun. Creating a healthy and sustainable school facility is not difficult,
but it requires a "whole building" approach to the design process,

the ENERGY STAR program, EPA gives school districts

DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION
AND RENOVATION:

School districts will spend billions of dollars in the next few
years building and renovating schools to keep up with a
surging population and new class-size limits, The designs of
these schools will help determine the quality of the buildings,
decades of operational expenses and, most importantly,
the health and productivity of generations of students and
staff. The most sustainable and energy-efficient designs will
take advantage of climate conditions, enhance the indoor
environment, conserve energy and use renewable resourc-
es. They will also protect and conserve water, use materials
that come from sustainable resources, minimize construc-
tion waste, and optimize maintenance and operations.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY:

America's primary and secondary schools spend a staggering
$6 billion a year for energy — more than is spent on text-
books and computers combined. Schools can save as much
as 30 percent on energy costs by using energy-efficient tech-
nologies and making sensible changes in operations and main-
tenance. Wasted energy dollars - $1.5 billion nationwide - can
be redirected to the schools' primary mission: education.

ENERGY STAR® FOR

K-1 2 SCHOOL DISTRICTS:

The ENERGY STAR® For Schools program links energy and

financial performance and protects the environment, Through

technical support and guidance on financing. The agency
also recognizes schools trying to use energy more efficiently.
EPA helps school administrators make decisions that are
good for their budgets and the environment In New England,
our K-12 schools spend more than $500 million on energy.
EPA's Community Energy Challenge helps local communities
measure their energy use and take steps to reduce energy use
in schools or other municipal buildings. Every community can
save 10 percent, and those who achieve this 10 percent will
be recognized by EPA's ENERGY STAR program.

REUSE, RECYCLING & E-CYCLING:

Reuse and recycling are a series of approaches aimed at
reducing the amount of solid waste and other resources
we dispose of. Reuse includes donating or finding a second
life for materials that may be considered waste. Recycling
includes collecting recyclable materials that would otherwise
be considered waste, sorting and processing recydabies into
raw materials such as fibers, and manufacturing raw materials
into new products. School districts can reduce the amount of
waste they generate, and start a waste reduction program
or expand an existing one. Safer alternatives may be chosen
for hazardous chemicals used in facility maintenance or class-
rooms and shops. Schools also can reduce the environmental
impact of electronics at the end of their useful life through
reuse and donation, recycling, and buying greener electronic
products. Water can also be recycled for watering plants and
food waste can be used for creating compost.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

CYNTHIA GREENE

EPA New England
Manager, Energy & Climate Unit
(617) 918-1813
greene.cynthia@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

&EF»A

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

KIDS

AT SCHOOL Healthy Kids in New England

GOING GREEN AT SCHOOL:

Many of the more than 120,000 public and private school buildings in the U.S. are old and in poor condition, and may
contain environmental conditions that inhibit learning and pose increased risks to the health of children and school staff.
Effective and motivated staff, administration and students can overcome inadequate facilities and perform at a high
level almost anywhere, but a well-designed facility and an environmentally conscious approach to school operations
can enhance performance and make learning more fun. Creating a healthy and sustainable school facility is not difficult,
but it requires a "whole building" approach to the design process,

ASSESSING YOUR SCHOOL:
EPA has also developed a software tool to help school
districts assess the environmental conditions at their own
facilities. The Healthy School Environments Assessment
Tool (HealthySEAT) contains an environmental health and
safety checklist and is designed to be easily customized to
reflect state and local requirements and policies.

TEN WAYS TO MAKE
YOUR SCHOOL HEALTHIER:

1. Clear the air inside.

EPA's Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools program
provides information to help schools prevent and
solve indoor air quality problems.

2. Clear the air outside.

Schools can reduce children's exposure to diesel
exhaust by eliminating unnecessary school bus idling,
installing effective emission control systems on newer
buses and replacing the oldest buses with new ones.

3. Rid school buildings of radon.

Schools should test the level of radon gas in their build-
ings with a radon test kit. If the test results are above
healthy levels, steps should be taken to reduce radon.

4. Use toxics with caution.

Schools should look for alternatives to toxic pesti-
cides and cleaning chemicals. Remove the sources of
lead, mercury, asbestos and PCBs from the school
environment, where possible,

5. Buy chemicals carefully.

Possible health, safety and environmental implications
should be considered before chemicals are purchased
for use in schools. Proper chemical use and manage-
ment (storage, labeling, disposal) is critical for reduc-
ing chemical exposures and costly accidents,

6. Test the water.

School districts should know the quality of the drink-
ing water in their school buildings, and should have it
tested regularly.

7. Get the lead out.

School buildings built before 1978, should be tested
for lead paint. Renovations or repairs should be done
in a way that does not create lead dust. Children
should be kept away from lead hazards.

8. Keep mercury from rising.

School environments should be mercury-free. Schools
should use digital thermometers and safer alterna-
tives to mercury in science curriculum, nurses' offices,
and within facilities operations/ maintenance.

9. Cover up.

Schools should practice "sunsafe behavior" and encourage
children to cover up, use SPF 15 or higher sun screen,
and stay out of midday sun to avoid damaging UV rays.

10. Educate yourself.

You need to know what environmental health issues
are important so you can evaluate your school and
choose your priorities.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

Jflfc United States

Environmental Protection
IhI m * Agency

® printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT SCHOOL

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - AIR:

Air pollution, especially smog, has been linked to many respiratory problems and may trigger asthma attacks in children,
Air pollution is not just a problem in urban areas. On hot days in summer, even rural areas may face unhealthy levels of
air pollution, On days when air quality is poor and forecasts are for high ozone or smog, outdoor activities for children
should be restricted. Air quality around schools can be affected by pollution from various sources: stationary sources
such as factories and power plants; mobile sources such as cars, buses, planes and trains; and naturally occurring
sources such as dust.

DIESEL SCHOOL BUSES:

More than 1.7 million children in New England ride a bus
to and from school every day, spending, on average, an
hour and a half each weekday in a school bus. School buses
are the safest way for children to get to school. Pollution
from diesel vehicles, however, has
health implications, Diesel exhaust
from idling school buses can accu-
mulate on and around the bus
and pose a health risk outside and
inside school buses and buildings.

Diesel exhaust has been identified
as a likely cause of cancer, and the
soot and gases emitted by diesel
buses are associated with acute
eye, throat, and bronchia! irrita-
tion; exacerbation of asthma and
allergic responses; and potential
interference with proper lung
growth and development in children.

Reduce children's exposure to diesel
exhaust by eliminating school bus idling.

CLEAN SCHOOL BUS USA:

Clean School Bus USA is a national partnership to reduce
children's exposure to diesel exhaust by eliminating
unnecessary school bus idling, installing effective emission
control systems on newer buses and replacing the oldest
buses in the fleet with newer ones. Its goal is to reduce
both children's exposure to diesel exhaust and the
amount of air pollution created by diesel school buses.

FUEL STORAGE:

Schools store fuel for heating buildings and fuel-
ing school vehicles. Improper handling and storage
can threaten groundwater, which is often a source
of drinking water, and other natural resources, and
create public safety hazards.
Fuel must be handled in ways
that minimize the chance
of a leak or spill, and schools
must be prepared to respond if a
leak or spill does occur. EPA rules
require facilities that store more
than 1,320 gallons of oil above
ground to have plans, called Spill
Prevention and Control Coun-
termeasure plans, to reduce
the chance of a spill and spell
out response strategies. "Oil"
is defined to include gasoline,
kerosene, diesel, lubricants, waste oil, hydraulic oil and
heating oil. Facilities with oil stored below ground may
have to draft these plans as well, or may fall under the
scope of the federal Underground Storage Tank regu-
lations. Even schools that do not fall within the scope
of federal regulations need to take steps to prevent a
spill and to have a plan in case a spill occurs. Any oil
spill that reaches, or threatens to reach surface water,
must be reported to the National Response Center at
(800) 424-8802.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

ANNE ARNOLD

EPA New England
Manager, Air Quality Unit
(617) 918-1047
arnold.anne@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index, htm I

&EF»A

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT SCHOOL

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - AIR:

AIR QUALITY FORECAST:
EPA works with local weather forecasters to provide
a color-coded chart that reports air quality levels in
communities across New England. The Air Quality Index,
often seen on local weather forecasts, helps the public
understand whether local air quality and air pollution
levels are good, moderate, unhealthful—or worse. The
Air Quality Index is a standardized method of reporting
air pollution. It measures pollutant concentrations in a
community's air to a number on a scale of 0 to 500. It
lets the public determine whether air pollution levels are
good, moderate, unhealthful—or worse. It is often seen
on weather broadcasts on television. See Air Quality
index on reverse.

ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION:
The global levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation are rising.
Overexposure to UV radiation can lead to serious
health effects, such as skin cancer, cataracts and immune
suppression. Some exposure to sunlight can be enjoy-
able, but too much can be dangerous, For children play-
ing outside on school playgrounds, overexposure to the
sun's ultraviolet radiation can cause sunburns in the short
term and problems such as skin cancer and cataracts in
the long term. The ozone layer, a thin shield in the upper
atmosphere, protects Earth from the sun's ultraviolet
rays, Children and their caregivers need to protect them-
selves from overexposure to the sun. Schoolchildren

A Partnership Program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

www.epa.gov/sunwise

need to learn "sunsafe behaviors" like limiting time in the
midday sun, staying in the shade, using sunscreen and
wearing a hat and sunglasses.

EPA SUNWISE PROGRAM:
The SunWise Program is an environmental and health
education program to teach children and caregivers
how to protect themselves from overexposure to

the sun through
the use of class-
room-, school-, and
community-based
components.
SunWise Schools receive materials that facilitate cross-
curricular classroom learning. The program also encour-
ages schools to provide a sun-safe infrastructure, including
shade structures (e.g., canopies, trees) and policies (e.g.,
using hats, sunscreen, sunglasses) that promote sun protec-
tion in a school setting. SunWise also supports community
partnerships, such as inviting guest speakers to school
assemblies, to enhance sun safety efforts. Recognizing the
many issues schools are asked to address daily, SunWise
was developed with the needs of schools and educators
in mind. The program can be used as stand-alone teaching
tools or to complement existing school curricula. The time
commitment necessary to implement SunWise is minimal,
while the potential payoff in lower skin cancer rates—and
other health benefits in the future—is high.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

ANNE ARNOLD

EPA New England
Manager, Air Quality Unit
(617) 918-1047
arnold.anne@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index, htm I

Jflfc United States

Environmental Protection
IhI m * Agency

® printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
Air Quality
Index (AQI)
Values

Levels of
Health
Concern

Cautionary
Statements
for Ozone

Cautionary
Statements for
Particle Pollution

0-50

Good

None

None

51-100

Moderate

Unusually sensitive

people should
consider reducing
prolonged or heavy
exertion outdoors.

Unusually sensitive

people should
consider reducing
prolonged or heavy
exertion.

101-150

Unhealthy
for Sensitive
Groups

Active children and adults,

and people with lung
disease, such as asthma,
should reduce
prolonged or heavy
exertion outdoors.

People with heart
or lung disease,
older adults, and
children should
reduce prolonged
or heavy exertion.

151-200

Unhealthy

Active children and adults,

and people with lung
disease, such as asthma,
should avoid prolonged or
heavy exertion outdoors.
Everyone else, especially
children, should reduce
prolonged or heavy
exertion outdoors.

People with heart or
lung disease, older adults,
and children should avoid
prolonged or heavy exer-
tion. Everyone else should
reduce prolonged
or heavy exertion.

201-300

Very
Unhealthy

Active children and adults,

and people with lung
disease, such as asthma,
should avoid all outdoor
exertion. Everyone else,
especially children, should
avoid prolonged or heavy
exertion outdoors.

People with heart or
lung disease, older adults,
and children should avoid
all physical activity outdoors.
Everyone else should avoid
prolonged or heavy
exertion.

301-500

Hazardous

Everyone should avoid all
physical activity outdoors.

People with heart or lung
disease, older adults,
and children should
remain indoors and keep
activity levels low. Everyone

else should avoid all
physical activity outdoors.

The Air Quality
Index (AQI)

is a standardized
method of report-
ing air pollution. It
measures pollutant
concentrations in a
community's air to a
number on a scale of
0 to 500. It enables
the public to deter-
mine whether air
pollution levels are
good, moderate, un-
healthful—or worse.
It is often seen on
weather broadcasts
on television.

-------
KIDS AT SCHOOL

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

More than 53 million children and 6 million adults in the
U.S. spend their days in elementary and secondary schools.
To help children stay healthy, we must reduce their exposure to environmental
hazards in school environments. Healthy students and teachers enable children
to learn and produce more in the classroom, which improves performance and
achievement later in life.

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - DRINKING WATER:

Clean drinking water is necessary for good health and tap water is a great choice: it's much less expensive per gallon
than bottled water and there are no plastic bottles to recycie. EPA and state drinking water programs regulate tap
water to make sure it is safe, Whether your school gets its water from the nearby community system or from its own
on-site well, the owner of the water system is responsible to regularly test the water, report the results, treat the water
if needed, and let you know about any violations of requirements.

LEAD IN DRINKING WATER:

Even if the drinking water supplied to your school meets
standards, lead can enter the water in the school's
plumbing system from corrosion - the wearing away
of lead from plumbing fixtures and solder as a result
of a chemical reaction with water
and the plumbing. These fixtures
include lead pipes, lead solder
(commonly used until 1986), as
well as faucets, valves and other
components made of brass. The
potential for lead to leach into
water can increase the longer the
water remains in contact with
lead in plumbing, This increases
the importance of testing for
lead in schools and implementing
flushing programs or replacing
fixtures where appropriate. You
can find a toolkit to assist schools
in ensuring their drinking water does not contain elevat-
ed levels of lead at www.epa.gov/infrastructure/drink-
ingwater/schools/ guidance.cfm

WATER CONSERVATION:

Schools use a large amount of water. Every day
schools require water for heating and cooling systems,
restrooms, drinking water faucets, locker rooms,
cafeteria, laboratories, art rooms, and outdoor play-

ing fields. Increased demand for water and develop-
ment patterns have caused water shortages in some
areas and some streams have lost so much water
that they no longer can support a healthy ecosys-
tem. For information on how
to conserve water and ways to
engage students in learning to
save water at home and school,
visit EPA's Watersense program
at www.epa.gov/watersense

Clean drinking water is
necessary for good health.

WATER EDUCATION

AND CAREERS:
Today's students become
tomorrow's leaders. Course
work in science, math, history
and government can all provide
an opportunity for students to
learn about the complexity and importance of water
resource protection. Exposure to these issues can also
attract the next generation of professionals to careers
as drinking water professionals. Career opportunities
are varied and include scientists, engineers, adminis-
trators, treatment plant operators, regulators and
lawyers. For information on possible careers, visit
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/ operatorcertifica-
tion/wateryouwaitingfor/

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NACLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

KAREN M CG U I RE

EPA New England
Manager, Drinking Water Quality
Protection Unit
(617) 918-1711
mcguire.karen@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index, html

&EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT SCHOOL

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

More than 53 million children and 6 million adults in the
U.S. spend their days in elementary and secondary schools.
To help children stay healthy, we must reduce their exposure to environmental
hazards in school environments. Healthy students and teachers enable children
to learn and produce more in the classroom, which improves performance and
achievement later in life.

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - TOXIC SUBSTANCES:

The environment inside a school is affected by the quality of its air, the way staff and administration manage chemicals
and a range of other factors. The age and design of many school buildings contribute to indoor environmental quality
concerns. Children, who spend dozens of hours a week at school, are especially susceptible to pollutants because their
bodies are smaller and growing. Because of indoor environmental quality problems, students and school staff face a
risk higher than the general public of short-term health problems, such as fatigue and nausea, and long-term problems
like asthma and other respiratory diseases.

PESTICIDES: INTEGRATED

PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM):

Pesticides used indoors and outdoors to protect students
and employees from insects, rodents, fungi, bacteria and
to eliminate weeds, can also cause health hazards and
contribute to environmental pollution. Children are more
sensitive than adults to pesticides, Young children are
exposed more to pesticides because they crawl, explore
and engage in other hand-to-mouth activities. Because
of concerns about unnecessary exposure to pesticides,
most states have developed special restrictions on how
pesticides may be used in schools. State pesticide regula-
tory agencies have details of pesticide use recommenda-
tions and restrictions in a particular state or town. When
pests are carefully managed, schools can reduce or even
eliminate the need to use pesticides. To protect children
and staff from exposure to pesticides used in schools,
EPA encourages school officials to adopt Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) practices to make schools safer for
children.

PCBS:

Polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, are mixtures of
synthetic organic chemicals. PCBs have been linked to
such health concerns as decreased gestational age, lower
birth weight, depressed immune responses, impaired
mental development, and growth retardation.

PCBS IN LIGHT BALLASTS:

Many schools have fluorescent lights with components
containing polychlorinated biphenyls, synthetic chemical
compounds made up of chlorine, carbon and hydrogen,
As light ballasts age, the components degrade, increas-
ing the risk of leaks or even fires, posing a health and
environmental hazard to students and staff. Before 1979,
PCBs were widely used in electrical equipment, such as
fluorescent light ballasts, transformers and capacitors.
Although PCBs are no longer used, there are still millions
of pieces of equipment in operation that contain PCBs,
When not handled and disposed of properly, PCBs can
harm children and adults.

PCBS IN BUILDING CAULK:
In recent years, EPA has learned that caulk containing
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) was used in some build-
ings, including schools, in the 1950s through the 1970s,
Buildings built after 1980 are less likely to contain caulk
that contains PCBs. Caulk is a flexible material used to seal
gaps to make windows, masonry and joints in buildings and
other structures watertight or airtight. EPA does not have
information on the extent of the use of PCB-containing
caulk or whether it was primarily used in certain geograph-
ic areas, To date it has been found in buildings in the north-
eastern United States and in joints in concrete water
storage basins in the western United States,

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

NANCY BARMAKIAN

EPA New England
Manager, Toxics & Pesticides Unit
(617) 918-1016
barmakian.nancy@epa,gov

GENERAL INFO:
EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

Jflfc	United States

Environmental Protection
IhI m * Agency

® printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT SCHOOL

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - TOXIC SUBSTANCES:

The environment inside a school is affected by the quality of its air, the way staff and administration manage chemicals
and a range of other factors, The age and design of many school buildings contribute to indoor environmental quality
concerns. Children, who spend dozens of hours a week at school, are especially susceptible to pollutants because their
bodies are smaller and growing, Because of indoor environmental quality problems, students and school staff face a
risk higher than the general public of short-term health problems, such as fatigue and nausea, and long-term problems
like asthma and other respiratory diseases.

ASBESTOS:

Asbestos can be found in materials used in schools
for acoustic and thermal insulation, fireproofing, roof-
ing and other building materials. Asbestos is a toxic
substance and known carcinogen and can cause serious
diseases in humans. Although school leaders may choose
to remove asbestos from school buildings, many schools
manage asbestos-containing building material by leaving
it in place. These materials left intact generally don't
pose a health risk but should be assessed. They may
pose a greater risk if they are damaged, disturbed in
some manner, or deteriorate over time and thus release
asbestos fibers into the air. EPA's asbestos program for
schools, governed by The Asbestos Hazard Emergency
Response Act, provides guidance for "in-place" manage-
ment of asbestos-containing materials,

MERCURY:

Mercury is present in items found in schools, including
thermometers, barometers, switches, thermostats, lamps
and laboratory equipment. Mercury spills at schools are
often caused by improper storage and mishandling of
these items. Mercury is more likely than other lab chemi-
cals to be misused, spilled and spread through schools.
Mercury exposure is harmful to children's health and
may cause damage to the senses and brain, irritability,
impulsiveness, drowsiness, impaired memory and sleep
disturbances. At high doses, mercury exposure can cause

tremors, inability to walk, convulsions and even death.
Effects may occur at lower levels of exposure in children
than adults. Cleaning up mercury spills in schools can be
costly and cause widespread environmental contamina-
tion since it can easily be tracked throughout a building.
Mercury compounds and equipment and products contain-
ing mercury should be replaced in schools with alternatives
such as digital thermometers. Several New England states
already prohibit schools from purchasing mercury.

CHEMICALS:

From elementary school maintenance closets to
high school chemistry labs, schools use many types
of chemicals. Chemicals are found in science class-
rooms and labs, art classrooms and vocational shops.
When chemicals are mismanaged, students and school
personnel may be at risk from spills, fires, and other
accidental exposures. Chemical accidents disrupt
school schedules and can cost thousands of dollars to
clean up, Chemical management creates a healthier
atmosphere for school occupants. Purchasing safer
alternatives to toxic substances is one method of
chemical pollution prevention. Proper storage, use,
and disposal of chemicals is another key to maintain-
ing healthy schools. EPA's Schools Chemical Cleanout
Campaign (SC3) helps schools learn about purchasing
less hazardous chemicals, including mercury.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & Indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

&EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

KIDS AT SCHOOL Healthy Kids in New England

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - AIR:

The environment inside a school is affected by the quality of its air, the way staff and administration manage chemicals, and
a range of other factors. The age and design of many school buildings contribute to indoor air quality concerns. Children,
who spend dozens of hours a week at school, are especially susceptible to pollutants because their bodies are smaller and
growing. Because of indoor air quality problems, students and school staff face a risk higher than the general public of
short-term health problems, such as fatigue and nausea, and long-term problems like asthma and other respiratory diseases,

ORGANIC VAPORS OR
VOLATILE ORGANIC
COMPOUNDS (VOCS):

Schools use many products containing organic vapors
or volatile organic compounds. Paints, paint strip-
pers, wood preservatives, aerosol sprays, cleansers,
moth repellents, air fresheners, stored fuels and
craft supplies all may contain VOCs. Different VOCs
pose different levels of threat to children and adult
health. Exposure to VOCs can irritate eyes, nose and
throat; damage the liver, kidneys and central nervous
system; and lead to cancer, Use of safer alternatives
and environmentally friendly products in schools can
help reduce the risks associated with VOCs. Schools
should also reduce risks by ventilating work areas
and properly storing and safely disposing of products
containing VOCs.

RADON:

Nearly one in five schools nationwide has at least
one schoolroom with an unacceptably high short-
term level of radon. Radon, a naturally occurring
radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer, comes
from the decay of uranium, found in nearly all soils.
EPA estimates that more than 70,000 schoolrooms
nationwide have high short-term radon levels. In
New England, the challenge is great since much of
New England is built on granite, which can contain

sufficient uranium to emit harmful levels of radon.
Radon can seep into school buildings through cracks
or holes in the basement walls and floor, it is color-
less, odorless and tasteless. The only way to detect
radon is to test for it, Since EPA ranks indoor radon
among the most serious causes of environmental
health problems facing us, aii school buildings should
be tested for radon. After smoking, it is the second
leading cause of lung cancer in the country causing an
estimated 14,000 lung cancer deaths per year,

VENTILATION:

School heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning
(HVAC) systems are designed to provide air at
comfortable temperature and humidity levels, free
of harmful concentrations of air pollutants. HVAC
systems function by bringing in outdoor air, condition-
ing and mixing the outdoor air with some portion of
indoor air, distributing this mixed air throughout the
school building, and exhausting some portion of the
indoor air outside. Indoor air quality may deteriorate
when any part of this process doesn't work properly,
HVAC systems are among the largest energy consum-
ers in schools. Good HVAC systems not only protect
student and staff health, but can also reduce water
consumption and improve acoustics. HVAC systems
also need proper maintenance such as cleaning filters
and emptying condensate reservoirs.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

Jflfc United States

Environmental Protection
IhI m * Agency

® printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT SCHOOL

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT SCHOOL

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - AIR:

ASTHMA:

Asthma has reached epidemic proportions in the United
States affecting about 20 million people of all ages and
races, particularly children. Nearly one in 13 school-aged
children has asthma, and the percentage is rising more
rapidly in preschool-aged children than in any other age
group. Asthma is the leading
cause of school absenteeism due
to a chronic illness, accounting for
over 14 million missed school days
per year. About 330,000 children
in New England have asthma.

Environmental asthma triggers
commonly found in schools include
mold and cockroaches or other
pests. Secondhand smoke and dust
mites in schools also may trigger
asthma, A child's asthma should be
addressed medically and by avoid-
ing environmental triggers.

Preventing moisture is
key to controlling mold.

TOOLS FOR SCHOOLS PROGRAM:
The rate of asthma in children is increasing at a pace that
underscores the need for schools to address indoor air
problems. EPA's Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools
Program helps schools maintain a healthy environment and
reduce exposures to indoor environmental contaminants.
This Action Kit helps school personnel identify, solve, and
prevent indoor air quality problems in the school environ-
ment. Through the use of a 19-step management plan and

checklists for the entire building, schools can also lower their
students' and staff s risk of exposure to asthma triggers.

MOLD & MILDEW:

Mold is associated wfth moisture and may become a health
problem in schools. Mold growth in buildings often leads to
health complaints, particularly from
students or staff with allergies or
respiratory problems. Health effects
and symptoms can include allergic
reactions, asthma, and other respira-
tory problems, Preventing moisture is
the key to controlling mold problems.
Mold spores, found almost every-
where in our environment, need mois-
ture to germinate, and take only a day
or two to grow. Moisture problems
in schools can be caused by flooding,
poor drainage, misdirected sprinklers
or leaky roofs, pipes, windows, founda-
tions and other structural openings, Problems also can result
from poor ventilation during certain regular maintenance,
including painting or carpet cleaning, or from conditions during
school breaks including high humidity during summer, and
reduced use of air-condrtioning or heating. Moisture problems
in schools are also associated with delayed maintenance or insuf-
ficient maintenance. Temporary structures, such as trailers and
portable dassrooms, have been associated with mold problems.
If mold is a problem in your school, you must dean up the mold
and eliminate sources of moisture.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & Indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa,gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

&EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT HOME

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT HOME Ntirtetmg
clean outdoor areas around your home is important.

Outdoors, children can be exposed to harmful pesticides,
contaminated soil or water. The air children breathe and the sun also impact
children's health. Air pollution can cause lung and other respiratory diseases,
and overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause serious health effects,
including skin cancer and eye damage immune system suppression.

OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - TOXICS:

Children who are exposed to toxic pollutants at sufficient concentrations and durations may have an increased
chance of health problems including damage to the immune system, and neurological, developmental, respiratory and
other health problems including cancer. People are exposed to toxic pollutants by breathing contaminated air, eating
contaminated foods products, drinking water contaminated by toxic air pollutants, touching contaminated soil, dust,
or water. Young children are especially vulnerable because they often ingest soil from their hands or objects they place
in their mouths,

CONTAMINATED SOIL:

Soil surrounding homes can become contaminated by
lead and other metals, especially from chipping and peel-
ing lead-based house paint. Vegetables or fruits grown in
lead-contaminated soil may also contain lead. Have soil
at home tested for lead. Determine whether long-term
pesticide use occurred in areas of vegetable gardens
such as old orchards or cranberry bogs. Do not grow
vegetables if the testing shows high levels of lead in the
soil. If soil is contaminated, consider purchasing topsoil
and potting soil to grow vegetable plants in containers.

PRESSURE TREATED WOOD:
Pressure-treated wood has been treated with a preser-
vative to protect it against dry rot, fungi, molds, and
termites. Since the 1970s, most wood used to build
outside structures, including swing and play sets, decks,
walkways, fences and picnic tables, was treated with
chromated copper arsenate (CCA), a chemical wood
preservative containing chromium, copper and arsenic.
Arsenic is a known human carcinogen and is toxic. As
of December 31, 2003, use of CCA for wood products
around homes and in children's play areas is no longer
allowed, however, many existing decks and other struc-
tures are made of wood treated with CCA, EPA's review
of CCA is ongoing, but EPA does not believe there
is reason to remove or replace existing CCA-treated
structures, including decks and playground equipment.

Wash hands thoroughly after contact with treated wood,
especially prior to eating and drinking. Avoid direct food
contact with treated wood. Wash clothes and toys that
have come in contact with treated wood. Do not burn
CCA-treated wood, because toxic chemicals may be
released as part of the smoke.

TOXIC EMISSIONS:

Emissions from lawn mowers, snow blowers, chain saws,
leaf vacuums, and similar outdoor power equipment are a
significant source of toxic air pollution. Small engines emit
high levels of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless,
poisonous gas. They also emit hydrocarbons and nitro-
gen oxides, pollutants that contribute to the formation
of ozone. Children exposed to these toxic air pollutants
can suffer from damaged immune systems, neurological,
developmental, respiratory and other health problems.
Reduce children's exposure by avoiding gasoline spillage,
maintaining yard equipment, including changing oil and
cleaning or replacing air filters regularly.

Consider cleaner options such as manual tools, propane,
solar or electric options which are available for some
equipment. Electrically-powered lawn and garden tools
produce essentially no pollution from exhaust emissions
or through fuel evaporation. However, generating the
power to run electric equipment does produce pollution.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

NANCY BARMAKIAN

EPA New England
Manager, Toxics & Pesticides Unit
(617) 918-1016
barmakian.nancy@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:
EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

Jflfc United States

Environmental Protection
IhI m * Agency

® printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT HOME

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

HEALTHY KIDS AT HOME Maintaining
clean outdoor areas around your home is important.

OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - AIR:

Every summer, New England suffers from dozens of days with unhealthy air. Children who are exposed to toxic
air pollutants at sufficient concentrations and durations may have an increased chance of health problems including
damage to the immune system, and neurological, developmental, respiratory and other health problems including
cancer. The most common air pollutants are ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, lead, sulfur
dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. Several pollutants, including ozone and particulate matter, are associated with increases
in respiratory-related diseases in children, including reduction of lung function, increases in respiratory symptoms, and
increased severity or frequency of asthma attacks.

OZONE:

Ground-level ozone, one of the main ingredients in
smog, is created when pollution from cars, trucks and
industrial sources reacts with sunlight on hot summer
days. Ozone near ground level can harm the respira-
tory system, causing irritation in the throat, coughing
and chest discomfort. Ozone can aggravate asthma,
emphysema and bronchitis and can inflame and damage,
temporarily or permanently, cells that line the lungs.
Listen to forecasts for high ozone or smog in your area.
This advice applies especially to children and adults with
respiratory problems. If levels are high, limit outdoor
activities or slow down activities to reduce exposure.
On high ozone days, take steps to minimize emis-
sions, such as refraining from using gas-powered lawn
and garden equipment and reducing automobile trips.
Fuel vehicles in early morning or in evening,

AIRBORNE PARTICLES:

Airborne particles are another major ingredient of smog
and haze. Airborne particles come from various sources,
including fuel burning activities such as power plants,
incinerators, trucks, buses, wood stoves and fireplaces,
Smoke, airborne dust, dirt, soot and liquid droplets can
pose serious air quality problems in the home and espe-
cially to children. Particle pollution can occur year-round
and affect both lungs and heart. Short-term exposure

to particles can aggravate lung disease, causing asthma
attacks and acute bronchitis, and may increase suscep-
tibility to respiratory infections. Particle levels can be
elevated indoors when outdoor particle levels are high,
To reduce indoor levels of fine particles, refrain from
smoking and reduce use of candles, wood-burning stoves
and fireplaces. Listen to local forecasts to know when
particle levels are high in your area and reduce outdoor
activities to reduce exposure, especially for children and
people with respiratory or heart disease.

ULTRAVIOLET (UV)
RADIATION:

Overexposure to UV radiation can cause serious health
effects, including skin cancer, eye damage, cataracts,
and immune system suppression. One in five Americans
develops skin cancer. Sunlight is strongest in summer
in the middle of clear days; however, UV is present at
some level whenever the sun is up, all day, all year, even
on cloudy days. Most of the average person's lifetime
sun exposure occurs before the age of 18. Avoid chil-
dren's overexposure to the sun by using sun screen,
staying in shade or inside, wearing sunglasses, and
covering up with light clothing and hats when UV radia-
tion is at its peak.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

ANNE ARNOLD

EPA New England
Manager, Air Quality Unit
(617) 918-1047
arnold.anne@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index, htm I

&EFVK

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT HOME

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - ASTHMA;

Asthma is a respiratory illness that may be affected by indoor air pollutants, especially in young children because their
respiratory system is still developing, Indoor air pollution can make breathing a real chore for people with asthma.
Asthma is the leading cause of long-term illness in children and is also common in older adults who may have managed
it for years or developed it later in life. Indoor asthma triggers, such as smoke, dust mites, rodents and pets, molds,
cockroaches, house dust, and pollen are some of the irritants and allergens common in many homes. These irritants
and allergens can cause more frequent or more severe asthma attacks for children with asthma.

REDUCING ASTHMA

TRIGGERS AT HOME:

Research on environmental factors that cause or exac-
erbate asthma has focused on both indoor and outdoor
environmental triggers, including nitrogen dioxide,
pesticides, plasticizer, volatile
organic compounds, and fine
particles. Chronic exposure to
ozone may be linked to devel-
opment of asthma in children
who exercise outside. Chronic
exposure to fine particles may
affect lung function and growth.

Such pollutants also can exacer-
bate asthma, leading to breath-
ing difficulties, increased use of
medication and visits to doctors'
offices, emergency rooms and
hospitals. Several indoor pollut-
ants can trigger an asthma attack or worsen asthma
symptoms. Common indoor asthma triggers include
dust mites, mold and mildew, rodents, pets, cockroach-
es, and secondhand smoke. Keep your home as free
of asthma triggers as possible. Reduce children's expo-
sure to dust mites by keeping your home as clean as
possible, washing sheets once a week in hot water and
utilizing dust-proof mattress covers. Mattress and box
spring covers that completely enclose the items trap

Keep your home as free of
asthma triggers as possible.

or prevent bedbugs and dust mites. Keep stuffed toys
off beds; choose washable stuffed toys and wash often
in hot water. Vacuum carpets and fabric-covered furni-
ture often to reduce dust buildup.
Keep children with asthma out
of the room while it is being
vacuumed. Reduce children's
exposure to mold and mildew
by cleaning dirty surfaces thor-
oughly and drying completely. Fix
leaky plumbing and dry wet areas
within 24 to 48 hours to prevent
mold growth. Use exhaust fans
or open windows when shower-
ing, cooking or using the dish-
washer. Reduce children's expo-
sure to pet dander by keeping
pets out of sleeping areas and away from fabric-covered
furniture and carpets. Reduce children's exposure to
cockroaches by keeping kitchens clean and unfriendly
to bugs. Store food in sealed containers. Eliminate dirty
dishes from sinks and countertops. Store trash in sealed
containers, and eat only selected rooms of the house
such as kitchens and dining rooms. Reduce children's
exposure to secondhand smoke by keeping your home
and car smoke-free.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & Indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

&EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

KIDS AT HOME Healthy Kids in New England

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - TOXICS:

Indoor toxics are sources that release gases or particles into homes. Most indoor toxins originate from human-
made sources, including building materials and cleaning solvents, People are exposed to toxic pollutants by breathing
contaminated air, eating contaminated food products, drinking water contaminated by toxic air pollutants, touching
contaminated soil, dust, or water. Young children are especially vulnerable because they often ingest soil from their
hands or objects they place in their mouths. Children, who may be exposed to indoor pollutants for long periods of
time, are most susceptible to effects of indoor pollution, facing risk of asthma and other respiratory diseases.

TOXIC HOUSEHOLD

PRODUCTS AND PESTICIDES:

Exposure to household chemicals and pesticides may
cause harm to children. Potentially toxic household chemi-
cals include disinfectants, cleaning supplies, cosmetics,
medicines, paints and stains, air fresheners and swimming
pool chemicals, Examples of household pesticides include
cockroach sprays and baits, insect repellents, rat/rodent
poisons, flea/tick sprays, powders and pet collars, kitchen,
laundry, and bath disinfectants and sanitizers, products
that control or kill mold and mildew, and lawn and garden
products and weed killers. Pesticides may pose risk to
humans because they are designed to kill or adversely
affect living organisms. Concurrently, pesticides are often
useful because they can control disease-causing organisms,
insects, weeds, or other pests. Pesticide labels contain
important information you should read and understand
before using pesticide products. Poisoning from house-
hold chemicals has a range of effects from mild distress
like nausea or dizziness to serious harm including damage
to lungs or nervous, reproductive, endocrine and immune
systems. Health effects depend on toxicity of product,
amount and iength of exposure. Parents should take
precautions to store pesticides and household chemicals in
original containers in secure places out of children's reach.
Use the least toxic and most environmentally friendly
options available, Read labels before buying, using, stor-
ing or disposing of household pesticides and chemicals.

Wash fruits and vegetables to remove dirt, bacteria and
chemicals. Wash hands after using chemical products.

MERCURY:

About one in four children nationally is exposed to mercury
at unsafe levels. Mercury exposure may lead to irreversible
neurological effects. Most of these children were exposed
because their mothers were not aware during pregnancy of
the dangers of eating fish contaminated with mercury. Some
commercially available fish, especially lar^ge fish such as shark,
swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish, have higher levels of
mercury. Canned light tuna has lower mercury levels than
albacore, fresh/frozen tuna and canned white tuna. Mercury
also can enter the body by breathing vapors from broken
mercury thermometers, broken fluorescent bulbs, or spilled
liquid mercury. People may unknowingly expose themselves
to mercury (also called azogue or vidajan) through such cultur-
al or spiritual practices as sprinkling or burning mercury, which
releases mercury vapors into the home. Exposure to mercury
may result in irritability, mood swings, changes in vision, hear-
ing, speech, memory and mental problems, or serious kidney
damage. Children exposed to mercury, either before birth
by the mother's exposure, or as young children, may have
developmental and learning delays and disorders. Check local
fish advisories with state health departments to know which
fish have higher mercury levels in your area. Find alternatives
to mercury-containing products such as digital thermometers,
or substitutes in cultural and spiritual practices.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

NANCY BARMAKIAN

EPA New England
Manager, Toxics & Pesticides Unit
(617) 918-1016
barmakian.nancy@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:
EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

Jflfc United States

Environmental Protection
IhI m * Agency

® printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

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KIDS AT HOME

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - TOXICS:

ASBESTOS:

Asbestos, a mineral found in some older construction
materials, was used in shingles for roofing and siding, pipe
and boiler insulation, floor tiles, ceiling panels, coatings,
gaskets and some vermiculite insulation, and in brake
linings and disc-brake pads of older vehicles. Asbestos-
containing materials in good condition do not pose a
health risk, so the safest, easiest and least expensive
option may be to leave it alone. When construction
materials break down, are damaged or disturbed, tiny
fibers of asbestos can be released into the air. Inhaling
asbestos fibers can cause serious lung damage, including
lung cancer. If you decide to have asbestos removed from
your home, hire a state-certified asbestos abatement
professional.

LEAD:

Lead, found in many older homes, was added to paint
before being banned in 1978. Chipping, peeling lead
paint on window sills, doors or stairways, can form dust.
When lead in dust and paint chips is breathed into lungs
or eaten, it poses risks to children. Some old toys may
contain lead or lead paint, and toys can pick up lead from
contaminated soil or house dust. Lead also was used
in older pipes, solder and plumbing fixtures that can
corrode and release lead into drinking water. Exposure
to lead can result in lower intelligence in children, has
been associated with behavioral and attention problems,

and can lead to kidney, liver, brain and nerve damage.
At high levels, lead can cause seizures, coma, anemia,
and even death. Children should be tested for lead by
their health care provider. Homes built before 1978
should be tested for lead paint hazards and sources. Wash
children's hands before they eat; wash bottles, pacifiers,
and toys often. Wash floors and window sills to protect
children from lead-contaminated dust and peeling paint.
Run cold water until it becomes as cold as it can get, and
use only cold water for drinking, cooking, and making
baby formula. If you suspect exposure to lead, have
a health professional test your blood for lead levels.

DRINKING WATER
CONTAMINANTS:

Clean drinking water is necessary for good health, High
concentrations of bacteria, synthetic chemicals and natu-
ral contaminants can pose a health threat. Public water
supplies are monitored by the government and most
are safe and dependable. Water suppliers are required
to send annual water quality reports to households they
serve. In rare cases when problems occur with public
water supplies, the supplier must alert, either by mail or
through the media, everyone who might be affected. If
you have a private well, it is your responsibility to have
it tested. Annual testing is recommended to ensure the
quality of drinking water.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & Indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa.gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

&EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

-------
KIDS AT HOME

Healthy Kids in New England

HEALTHY KIDS

Healthy Kids

U.S. EPA I PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AT EPA NEW ENGLAND

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY - AIR:

The environment inside your home is affected by the quality of its air. Air can be unhealthy if it has too many pollutants,
Common indoor air pollutants Include cigarette smoke, chemicals, particles, bacteria, and molds, Indoor sources of air
pollutants are furniture, carpet, pets and people. Air pollutants also can enter into homes from outside sources through
cracks or leaks around windows. Air pollutants like mold or carbon monoxide can come from a home's heating, cooling
and ventilation systems. A well insulated but poorly ventilated home can increase levels of air pollution inside the home
relative to the outdoor levels.

ORGANIC VAPORS OR
VOLATILE ORGANIC
COMPOUNDS (VOCS):

Organic vapors or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are
found in many household products, including: paints; paint
strippers and other solvents; wood
preservatives; aerosol sprays;
cleansers and disinfectants; moth
repellents and airfresheners; stored
fuels and automotive products;
hobby supplies; and dry-cleaned
clothing. All of these products can
release organic compounds while
you are using them, and when they
are stored. VOCs vary in their
potential to affect health. Possible
health effects of exposure include:
irritation to eyes, nose and throat;
damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system; and
cancer. Studies indicate that people using products contain-
ing organic chemicals can expose themselves and others to
very high pollutant levels, and elevated concentrations can
persist in the air long after the activity is completed. In your
home, look for safer alternatives and choose environmen-
tally friendly products. If you must use products with VOCs,
reduce your exposure by ventilating work areas and buying
only the amount of product, needed. Take care to dispose of
any unused products as directed and in a safe manner.

Mold growth in homes can
lead to health issues.

MOLD AND MILDEW:

Moid thrives in moist environments. Mold spores, found
almost everywhere in our environment, need moisture to
germinate. If mold spores from the air land on a wet surface
in your home, they may just need a day or two to grow. Mold
growth in homes can lead to health
issues particularly for family members
with allergies or respiratory problems.
Potential health effects and symp-
toms associated with mold exposure
include allergic reactions, asthma and
other respiratory complaints, The
key to controlling mold problems in
your home is to control moisture. Fix
leaks, and dry water-damaged areas
and items within 2448 hours. Reduce
indoor humidity (to 30%-60% ) by
venting bathrooms, dryers, and other
moistur&generating sources to the
outside, using air conditioners and de-humidifiers, increasing
ventilation, and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dish-
washing, and cleaning. If mold is in your home, killing it with
bleach or deaner is not enough. The mold itself has to be
removed. To remove mold from hard surfaces, scrub with a
detergent cleaner and water. Be sure to wear safety gear such
as goggles, gloves and a mask. After removing the mold, dry
the surface completely. Certain moid-damaged, norvwashable
items may have to be thrown away or treated by a specialist.

KEY CONTACTS:

KATHLEEN NAGLE

EPA New England
Children's Environmental
Health Coordinator
(617) 918-1985
nagle.kathleen@epa.gov

IDA McDONNELL

EPA New England
Manager, Air Permits,
Air Toxics & Indoor Air Unit
(617) 918-1653
mcdonnell.ida@epa,gov

GENERAL INFO:

EPA NEW ENGLAND

5 Post Office Square
Suite 100

Boston, MA 02109-3912
(617) 918-1111
www.epa.gov/region1/

TOLL-FREE
CUSTOMER SERVICE

1-888-EPA-7341

LEARN MORE AT:

www.epa.gov/region1/
children/index.html

&EPA

United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

> printed on 100% recycled paper, with a minimum of 50% post-consumer waste, using vegetable-based inks

March 2011

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