A toxic chemical shakedown is taking place in schools across northwest Wisconsin. Local and state agencies have united to seek out and rid schools of Mercury and other hazardous materials.
Schools can sign a pledge to work at becoming mercury free.
Buildings must be checked for mercury and mercury containing items that can be recycled. A phase out plan for mercury devices like thermostates and switches includes labeling the items to ensure they are recycled when replaced. Mercury is a highly toxic naturally occurring element that can cause neurological damage, impaired memory, tremors, and headaches. Once exposed to the element a person's health may be irreversibly damaged. In schools mercury can be found in thermometers, blood pressure gauges, barometers and in science-chemistry laboratories.