RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Health has revealed its mascot aimed to spread awareness about the hazards of lead.

Meet Chip, the alligator on a mission to tackle hidden lead hazards by helping families recognize and reduce lead hazards in their homes.

According to the VDH, "Chip brings a friendly, memorable face to an important safety message."

Lead was banned from household paints and water pipes in 1978, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). If your house was built prior to that, there is a higher chance it contains higher content.

While lead poisoning can pose serious health risks to anyone, the VDH states that children are especially at risk.

"Lead can have severe and lasting effects on a child’s health and development," shared Childhood Lead

See Full Page