BANGOR – Penquis Community Action Program will hold a free lead-based paint homeowners awareness course 6-8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19, at Penquis CAP, 262 Harlow St., Bangor.

Those who take the class and have lead paint hazards in their home are eligible to lease special vacuums from Penquis CAP that are used to clean up lead dust.

Light refreshments will be served at 5:30 p.m. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. Call 973-3553.

Elevated lead levels in human beings may cause permanent damage causing developmental delays, behavioral problems, hyperactivity, lowered intelligence and decreased growth.

At toxic levels, lead can cause stunted growth, mental retardation, severe brain damage, coma and even death. Lead can be ingested or inhaled, with poisoning occurring most often from renovations of older homes or from the deterioration of lead paint. Children under the age of 6 years are most vulnerable to lead poisoning.

The class will provide information for homeowners, tenants and landlords who intend to do painting, repairs or renovation themselves in their homes where lead paint could be present. The class will be helpful even if individuals and families do not intend to do renovations, but intend to live in a home where lead based paint is present, particularly if young children or a pregnant woman resides in the house.

Topics will include precautions to take before beginning renovations, sanding techniques and cleaning up of lead dust. Penquis CAP will have high-efficiency particulate air vacuums to lease to families with lead paint hazards. The class is a prerequisite to borrowing the vacuums.

This is not a professional contractor class. Contractors may not take this class, nor does the class offer a certificate for Lead Smart Renovator or Lead Safe Contractor.

Contractors who would like that designation may call Rob Seavey, 973-3552, at Penquis CAP, or Bill Jenkins, 624-5720, at Maine State Housing Authority for information about contractor classes.

The class is supported by a grant from the Penobscot Valley Health Association Fund of the Maine Community Foundation. For more information or registration, call Penquis CAP at 973-3553.