This information may not be new information but it most certainly is worth reviewing and hopefully will serve as a reminder to test that paint BEFORE you disturb it in any way.

Lead-based paint is a type of paint that contains lead, a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems, especially in young children. Lead-based paint was commonly used in homes and other buildings built before 1978, when it was banned in the United States.

Lead paint can be hazardous in a number of ways. When lead paint chips or peels, it can create lead dust, which can be inhaled or ingested. Lead can also be absorbed through the skin. Lead poisoning can cause a range of health problems, including:

  • Brain damage
  • Learning disabilities
  • Behavior problems
  • Hearing loss
  • Vision problems
  • Anemia
  • Kidney damage
  • Seizures
  • Death

Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning because their bodies are still developing. Lead can damage a child’s brain and nervous system, which can lead to learning disabilities, behavior problems, and other long-term health problems.

Even low levels of lead exposure can be harmful to children. In fact, there is no safe level of lead exposure for children.

If you live in a home that was built before 1978, it is important to have your home tested for lead paint. You can hire a certified lead inspector to do this. If your home has lead paint, there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of lead poisoning, including:

  • Repairing or removing lead paint
  • Cleaning up lead dust regularly
  • Washing your hands and your children’s hands often
  • Keeping your children’s toys and other objects clean
  • Making sure your children eat a healthy diet

If you are concerned about lead poisoning, you can talk to your doctor. They can test your blood for lead levels and provide you with more information about how to protect yourself and your family from lead poisoning.

Tips for preventing lead poisoning in children

  • Wash your child’s hands often with soap and water.
  • Keep your child’s toys and other objects clean.
  • Make sure your child eats a healthy diet with plenty of calcium, iron, and vitamin C.
  • Avoid letting your child play in areas with lead-contaminated soil.
  • Have your home tested for lead paint. If your home has lead paint, repair or remove it as soon as possible.

If you think your child may have been exposed to lead, talk to your doctor. They can test your child’s blood for lead levels and provide you with more information about how to protect your child from lead poisoning.