STARKVILLE, Miss. -- Good health begins at home, and Mississippians can learn more about hidden dangers lurking in their household environments through workshops available from the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

David Buys, Extension health specialist, said agents across the state are ready to deliver workshops on 12 different topics as part of the Healthy Homes Initiative.

“There is a lot of concern about lead in our water supply, but what most people don’t realize is the majority of lead exposure comes from lead paint in older homes, on old toys, on antiques, and in imported ceramic, plastics and vinyl -- including children’s toys and jewelry,” Buys said.

Extension agents are available to train environmental health practitioners, public health nurses, housing professionals, community outreach workers, tribal environmental health officials and leaders of community-based organizations so they, in turn, can educate their clients.

Agents may also provide the training to local civic, parent and church groups and at senior centers. Buys said the training is relevant for everyone and encouraged anyone interested to request a session.

“We address the principles of a healthy home and ways to improve the health and safety of many different indoor environments,” Buys said. “Lessons can be presented individually or as a series. Topics include indoor air quality, asthma and allergies, radon, mold and moisture control, carbon monoxide, lead, drinking water and waste water management and more.”

Extension’s Healthy Homes Initiative also offers related curricula for community health workers and child care workers.

For more information or to schedule a training session, contact the county Extension office or call Buys at 662-325-3060. Online information for the national project is at http://extensionhealthyhomes.org.