Due to the harmful effects of lead on developing children, the best way to protect your child is to take some simple but important steps to prevent lead poisoning.   

1. Get your child tested for lead.  The Coalition To End Childhood Lead Poisoning recommends testing children yearly from ages 1-6.  Early detection means early intervention.   

2. Wash your child's hands often.  Before eating or sleeping, thoroughly wash your child's hands to reduce the chance of lead dust entering their mouth.  Also, clean your child's toys regularly, especially those used on the floor and on the ground.   

3. Feed your child healthy foods. Proper nutrition helps children grow and reduces the effects of lead.  Feed children foods high in Iron, Calcium and Vitamin C. 

4. Choose lead free housing. When renting or purchasing a home, ask detailed questions about when the home was built (lead paint was used until 1978) and if the house has been inspected for lead.  In older homes, choose homes or apartments with replacement (vinyl) windows.   

5. Have your home made lead safe.  Hire a certified lead contractor or attend lead safe work practice trainings to make sure the work is done safely.  Check for grants and loans to help pay some or all of the cost.  The best way to prevent exposure is to remove lead hazards from your home. 

6. Clean your home frequently and thoroughly.  Special cleaning techniques can reduce the amount of lead dust in your home. Especially after any renovation work that disturbs painted surfaces in homes built before 1978. 

Finally, make sure your home is lead safe.  Click here to learn how to make your home lead safe.