Lead Poisoning Prevention

Lead poisoning is preventable.
Be aware of common lead sources like old paint, imported products, and water from leaded pipes.
Frequent handwashing, cleaning toys, and a nutritious diet are practical prevention measures.
Know your home. Know about lead-based paint, follow lead-safe work practices for renovations, and hire certified professionals when needed.

Lead can be found in:

Lead-based paint found in homes built before 1978. As the paint ages, it can breakdown creating paint chips and dust that is easily swallowed or inhaled.
Imported consumer products such as cosmetics, spices, cultural remedies, pottery, and toys.
Take-home lead from hobbies and occupations.
Water pumped through leaded pipes.
Contaminated soil and air.

Wash your child’s hands frequently before eating, after playing outside or on the floor, and before sleeping.
Wash toys, bottles, pacifiers, and other objects that children handle and put in their mouths.
Leave shoes at the entrance to your home.
Keep your child away from bare soil.
Feed your child healthy foods high in Vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Store foods and liquids in lead-free containers.
Clean floors and windowsills using a damp mop or sponge and detergent.
Know if your home has lead-based paint before doing renovations or remodeling.
Use lead-safe work practices or hire a Certified Renovator if your home was built before 1978.
Use only cold tap water to prepare formula, for drinking and cooking.
Run water for 15 to 30 seconds before drinking.
Wash work clothes separately if a job or hobby uses lead.

Assume that your home has lead-based paint if it was built before 1978. If you are not sure, hire a Lead Evaluation Contractor.

What should I do if I want to have lead-based paint removed from my house?

Don't remove lead-based paint until you have reviewed these Lead Safe Work Practices
Hire a Lead Abatement Contractor
Hire a Certified Renovator

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