What can be done to prevent childhood lead poisoning?
• Safely remove lead hazards from the child’s environment. • Safely repair deteriorated lead-based paint and the debris & dust generated by it. • Cover bare patches of dirt in the yard with grass or mulch. • Safely clean the house using wet-cleaning methods on a weekly basis being sure to includ often-overlooked areas like windowsills and window wells. • Run the cold water in the house for several minutes if it has been used for 4 hours or more. Only use the cold water for cooking and drinking – hot water should be used for washing purposes. • Wash children’s hands often, especially before eating and after playing outside. • Do not allow children to play in bare dirt. • Try to keep your child from chewing or sucking on things that are not meant to be eaten or that you think might not be safe (jewelry, keys, crayons, remote controls, cigarette butts, toys, dirt, sticks, etc.).
