You Can Prevent Lead Poisoning

Lead is a common, naturally occurring heavy metal that has been used for hundreds of years but is toxic to our bodies. If even a small amount of lead gets into our body, it can cause damage and health problems that can't be reversed. All people can be affected by lead, but children 6 years or younger are more vulnerable because their developing brains and bodies absorb lead more easily than older children or adults.

The good news is that lead poisoning can be prevented! There are simple things that you and your family can do to prevent lead poisoning:

1. Wash hands: Before eating, sleeping (including naptime), and after playing outside.
2. Housekeeping: Use a HEPA filter vacuum and empty it outside. Damp mop and dust with a damp paper towel. Do not wear shoes inside the home.
3. Around your home: Make sure paint isn't chipping in the home, on walls, and windowsills especially if the home was built before 1978. Also make sure that paint is not chipping on toys or on older painted furniture. Make sure the housing provider is using lead-certified contractors to remodel safely. Avoid jewelry, older painted toys, or vintage and aluminum cookware. Do not allow children to play with or put jewelry in their mouth. Watch for toy or product recalls.
4. Around your yard: If you live in an area that may be contaminated with lead, cover bare soil. Don't let kids play in bare soil around older homes or buildings. Garden in raised beds if you live in a home where soil may be contaminated with lead.
5. Water safety: Flush tap water until it runs cold. Use cold water only for making baby formula, cooking, and drinking.
6. Hobby and occupational safety: Remove work clothes, gear, and shoes outside of living spaces and wash separately from other laundry. Shower before interacting with children.
7. Food: Encourage your child to eat healthy foods that have calcium, iron, and vitamin C. Avoid imported spices and avoid purchasing spices from international markets.

To learn more, watch the online video series, Protect Your Children's Future from Lead Poisoning, on the Snohomish County Health Department YouTube channel.

For more information, visit: Lead and Health ' Snohomish County Health Department, WA

For questions or comments, contact us by phone at 425-258-8401 or by email at leadprogram@co.snohomish.wa.us