St. Clair County health officials will be offering free lead screenings today for Port Huron residents concerned about rising lead levels in certain areas of the city. Earlier this year, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality’s air monitors near the Mueller Brass plant detected elevated airborne lead emissions, which prompted soil sampling within the neighborhood. Dr. Annette Mercatante is Chief Medical Officer for the St. Clair County Health Department says the levels are elevated, but still within the acceptable standard. Those living within the boundaries of 12th Street, Howard Street, Water Street, and the west City Limits are urged to get their blood lead levels checked at an event being held today. Mercatante says the health department will be taking blood lead level tests at the Harrison Center today between 9am and Noon and 5pm and 7pm. The Harrison Center is located on 15th Street in Port Huron. Mercantante says the health department won’t be turning anybody away for the event today, and says they will add additional screening events if there is demand.
