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Michigan National Guard cleans up lead in more than 30 armory sites

man in camo gear stands near jeep
Kevin Lavery
/
WKAR

Current State learns about the Michigan National Guard's efforts to clean up lead contaminated armory sites.

The Flint Water Crisis has brought the issue of lead poisoning to the national dialogue in an unprecedented way.

Lead is among the heaviest known elements. When ingested, it can cause an array of neurological effects, from slurred speech to seizures, and even death. Most cases of lead inhalation come from exposure to paint chips or lead dust.

The Michigan National Guard is tackling the issue at more than 30 of its own properties across the state. Current State’s Kevin Lavery visited the Grand Ledge armory, where the group was cleaning up lead residue from mechanical equipment.

 

Kevin Lavery served as a general assignment reporter and occasional local host for Morning Edition and All Things Considered before retiring in 2023.
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