Toxic chemicals may be hiding in makeup – a discovery made thanks to community engagement in local research 

A table with several community members mid conversation.

New research out of the Hazardous Waste Management Program (Haz Waste Program) in King County finds dangerously high levels of lead in traditional eyeliners. The study, published in PLOS Global Public Health on June 25, found lead levels in traditional eyeliners hundreds of thousands of times higher than Washington restriction levels under the Toxics Free Cosmetics Act – even in products labeled “lead free.”

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Three steps to stay safe from wildfire smoke

Breathing wildfire smoke can harm everyone’s lungs, heart, and overall health. Three steps can help you and your loved ones stay safe when wildfire smoke is in the air.

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Make sure your food vendor has a Public Health permit to avoid foodborne illness 

The best way to protect yourself from foodborne illnesses when you’re eating out is to only buy food from businesses that have a food safety rating sign – the green smiley face signs. These signs mean that a business has a Public Health food permit, which is an important step in the process to make sure a business is safely serving food.  

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How to choose a pet care facility 

We love our pets here in King County. With some of the highest pet ownership rates in the country, it’s clear our furry (and not-so-furry) companions are a big part of our lives. Whether you’re booking a grooming day for your pup or boarding your pet while you’re away, you want to feel confident they’ll be safe, happy, and healthy while in someone else’s care. 

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