Lead Poisoning Prevention

1. Lead Poisoning Prevention

2. Lead . . . • A heavy metal • Once used in many products (paint, pipes, other building materials) • Cannot see or smell it

3. Lead can be . . . • In dust, paint, soil or water • On toys • In food • On your child’s hands

4. Other Sources • Lead pipes, pipe solder and plumbing fixtures • Vinyl mini-blinds (before 1996) • Fishing sinkers and bullets

5. Other Sources • Hobby supplies (ceramics & electronics) • Stained glass • Candle wicks • Lead crystal

6. Lead Poisoning Effects • Learning disabilities • Hyperactivity • Impaired hearing • Decreased IQ and attention span • Decreased growth

7. Lead Exposure Primary • Oral (hand-to-mouth) Secondary • Inhaled • Through skin

8. Lead Poisoning Signs • Anemia • Abdominal pain • Headache • Constipation • Seizures • Coma

9. Testing for Lead • Blood test at age 1 • Repeat at age 2 • Test more often if known risk

10. Protect Your Family • Keep things clean • Mop floors • Wet-wipe windowsills, doors and cribs • Wash pacifiers, toys and bottles

11. Protect Your Family • Keep paint intact • Use a trained contractor for remodeling or removing lead paint • Clean all work areas well

12. Protect Your Family • Wash hands often • Wash children’s hands before eating, at nap time, and before bed • Remove shoes

13. Protect Your Family • If you have lead pipes, test your water for lead • Use only cold water for cooking, drinking and making baby formula

14. Protect Your Family • Run water 30-60 seconds before drinking or using for cooking • Use a water filter that will remove or reduce lead

15. Protect Your Family • Eat nutritious foods • Eat foods high in iron, calcium and vitamin C • Use lead-free pottery and glassware for serving and storing food.