What You Can Do
6 things to keep your family safe from lead
Lead builds up in the body over time. So even if your family has already been exposed to lead, you can still make a difference now. Eating foods containing iron, calcium, and vitamin C can provide protection from lead in the body. Here are 6 more steps you can take:
1. Wash hands often.
Young children explore the world with their hands. They crawl on floors where people and animals walk. They explore toys and objects with their hands. They eat much of their food with their hands. These things make it important to wash their hands with soap and water regularly. Bonus: washing hands often also helps prevent the spread of germs!
2. Get your water tested.
If you aren't sure whether your water supply contains lead, call your local or state health department to learn about water testing. Ask about options for using a water filter or bottled water. Only use safe water for drinking, mixing formula bottles, and cooking. Boiling water DOES NOT remove lead.
3. Wash fruits and vegetables.
Always wash produce before eating or offering them to your family. Lead can be found in soil. This is an important step!
4. Talk to your child’s health care provider.
If your child has been exposed to harmful levels of lead, they can be tested. Their health care provider can help you protect your child from lead in the future.
5. Feed your child regular, healthy meals and snacks.
Children with empty stomachs absorb more lead.
6. Check for chipping paint in older homes.
If you live in an older home, the paint may contain lead. This can be extra dangerous around places like windows and doors, where the paint may chip and fall on the floor or toys. Use wet paper towels to clean up paint chips and dust, and clean toys with soap and water regularly.