If you find lead in your home, be diligent about cleaning up and fixing chipped and peeling paint. Keep window sills, floors and windows clear of dust. Most importantly, be careful during renovations and repairs. Dust is kicked up during demolition and scraping paint. If your home has lead paint, find a contractor who has been trained to work in homes with lead paint. Consider leaving the house while the repairs are being completed, especially if you have young children.
Lead Isn’t Found Only in Paint
Sometimes old pipes are made with lead, which can leach into drinking water. Contact your local health department to find out if this is a problem in your area. Old or imported toys or canned goods sometimes contain lead; avoid purchasing foreign canned foods if possible and keep an eye out for recalls on toys. Register toys if the option is available so the manufacturer can notify you if there is a recall (not only for lead paint alerts, but also for any reason). Consider getting rid of old toys instead of letting your child play with them. If you are set on passing down a family heirloom or beloved toy, wait until the child is a little older and doesn’t put everything in his or her mouth.
And of course, comply with your doctor’s recommendations for lead screening. If your pediatrician doesn’t require screening for lead poisoning, ask your doctor about the test; it can be done with a simple blood test.
Source: Your baby’s environment. (2008, April)