Children's Health

Tools & Resources

Font Size

Lead Poisoning - Prevention

Lead poisoning may be prevented or limited by removing the source of lead in your home or workplace and by eating a healthful, balanced diet.

You can ask your local or state health department to test your home for lead or to give you the names of companies that can do such tests. Home test kits may not be accurate.

Recommended Related to Children

Children's Health: Finding Help

Select the age group or special topic that interests you and join in the talk. Other parents are there to share your concerns and experiences. Newborn to 6 Months 6-12 Months Old One-Year-Olds Two-Year-Olds Three-Year-Olds Preschoolers and Grade Schoolers Preemies Picky Eaters Special Needs Children Multiples Children With ADHD ...

Read the Children's Health: Finding Help article > >

To prevent or reduce exposure to lead, try these tips:

If your home is contaminated, wipe toys, windowsills, door frames, and uncarpeted floors with a wet cloth or damp mop at least once a week with warm, soapy water. Levels of lead in the blood can be reduced through regular housecleaning.
If your drinking water is contaminated, let cold water run for a few minutes in the morning before using it for drinking or cooking.
For nutrition and food preparation, make sure children get enough iron in their diet.
If you have a job or hobby that involves working with lead, shower and change clothes and shoes at work before getting in your car or before you come home, to prevent bringing home lead dust on your clothes and hair.
To help keep lead that is outdoors from getting into your house and food, have your child remove his or her shoes after playing outside. And wash your child's hands after he or she plays outdoors and before eating.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: June 21, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.