Keeping our children safe and healthy starts right at home. One hidden danger many families may not know about is lead—an invisible toxin found in old paint and even in drinking water. However, with a few simple steps, families can prevent childhood lead exposure and create a safe environment for kids to grow and thrive.
Why Lead is a Problem
Lead is a metal that was once used in house paint and plumbing. When children are exposed to it, especially under six, it can affect their brain development, behavior, and learning. That’s why it’s important to know where lead might be hiding in your home and how to get rid of it.
Where Lead Hides
- Old Paint: Homes built before 1978 might have lead-based paint. If the paint is chipping or peeling, tiny lead dust particles can end on floors, toys, and hands.
- Water Pipes: Some older homes still have lead pipes or plumbing parts that can leak lead into the water.
- Soil: Lead can also be in the dirt around homes, especially near older buildings or highways.
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
- Get Your Home Tested: Hire a certified lead inspector or contact your local health department to check for lead in paint, dust, and soil.
- Use Cold Water for Drinking and Cooking: Hot water can pull more lead from pipes. Always use cold tap water, then heat it if needed.
- Clean Regularly: Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth, mop floors often, and wash toys and hands regularly to remove dust.
- Fix Peeling Paint: If you see chipping or peeling paint, don’t sand it yourself—get professional help to remove it safely.
- Run Water Before Use: If your plumbing is old, let the water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking it to flush out any lead.
Helpful Resources for Families
- EPA Lead Information
- CDC Lead Prevention Tips
- Safe Drinking Water Hotline: 1-800-426-4791
- Find a Lead Inspector or Risk Assessor
- HUD Lead Safety for Parents
- Office of Head Start, Preventing Childhood Lead Exposure from Water and Paint Handout
Remember: A little knowledge and a few small changes can make a big difference. Let’s work together to keep our homes lead-safe and our kids healthy and strong!