Some people on Fort Hood received some much-needed information and reassurance Tuesday night.
A lot of people that live on military installations have been worried after an article in Reuters last month pointed out the high amount of lead-based paint in their homes.
After the article was published, the Army told each installation they had to hold a town hall by Sept. 15, to inform those living on post of the dangers and what the army is doing about it.
The Army says the danger of lead poisoning is low and the main goal of Tuesday’s town hall meeting is to educate the public.
Fort Hood Garrison Commander, Col. Henry Perry said, “I think it’s fair to have concern, but it is my job as the Garrison Commander to make sure that I provide the reassurance and the confidence to our residents on our installation that we are doing what we should be doing.”
The Army said the lead-based paint is in homes built before 1978 and nearly 70% of the homes on Fort Hood fall into that category.
People attending meeting said they were happy to hear that only 3 out of over 11,000 Fort Hood children tested since 2011, tested positive for high levels of lead. Adding, it is important to be well informed on subjects that affect your children.
The Army said they do a mandatory lead test on all children 12 to 18-months-old at their regular wellness checkup, adding that it is important to notify housing if you notice the paint in your home peeling or chipping.
They said that is when you lead-based paint is exposed and your child could be at risk.
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